Commission considers allowing small indoor recreation in industrial zones with occupancy limits

The Planning Commission examined draft language that would permit small-scale indoor recreation facilities in Light Manufacturing 1 (LM1) and industrial zones when specific criteria are met. Libby Grange, Planning Manager, explained the proposal would add an allowed use entry for “indoor recreation less than 10,000 square feet net floor area” in LM1 and industrial zones and would require zone-specific standards to minimize conflicts with adjacent industrial operations, including noise, truck access and hours of operation.

Staff originally proposed a maximum occupancy cap of 20 people to keep the uses small-scale. Commissioners questioned the origin and enforceability of that number. Commissioner Jaretsky and others suggested 20 may be too restrictive; Commissioner Mills and others proposed raising the cap to 30 or allowing the director to increase occupancy if the director finds the increase will not adversely affect adjacent industrial operations. Grange said a numeric cap provides enforceability but staff can return with options, such as a director-discretion waiver or a higher numeric cap.

The commission asked staff to draft revised text that either raises the cap to 30 or allows a director-level determination to permit a larger occupancy where impacts to industrial operations can be avoided. No formal change to the draft language was adopted at the meeting; the item will be further refined for the Oct. 22 public hearing.