Commission studies proposal to raise Heritage District height to 75 feet amid parking and identity concerns

Kristen Devine, planning staff, presented a study-session proposal to increase allowable heights in the HVC (Heritage Village Center) zoning district from the current 55 feet (or four stories, whichever is less) to a 75‑foot maximum, with a potential bonus of up to 90 feet for parcels that meet specified public-benefit criteria.

Town economic development staff, including Mike Martella, redevelopment program manager, cited an Urban3 analysis indicating that compact mixed‑use buildings yield higher value per acre and support the town’s sales‑tax–funded operations. Martella summarized the fiscal argument, saying, “stacking stories means stacking dollars.” Devine described proposed design controls: required stepbacks adjacent to single-family lots, a Gilbert Road stepback at one foot in from 55 feet to 75 feet, and a bonus program that would allow 90 feet where projects provide selected public benefits (examples staff…