City explores 'artisan zoning' and a maker district in Old Town to attract small makers and activate storefronts

City staff briefed the council on an exploratory initiative to create an artisan or maker district, with staff recommending Old Town as a candidate area for targeted outreach, inventory of storefronts, and incentive packaging. The proposal would pair zoning and land‑use adjustments with branding, targeted incentives and property‑owner engagement to attract makers, small‑scale manufacturers and creative businesses to underused commercial corridors.

Staff told the planning commission and council that the use is already allowed within the city’s form‑based code provided a storefront is present, but that a district approach could tailor incentives and branding to stimulate clustered activity and attract early adopters. Potential incentives discussed include facade improvements (the city has unspent 2024 façade program funds), forgivable loans, marketing support and equipment assistance. Staff said they would begin a building and storefront inventory and reach out to property owners and prospective tenants if the council gives the green light to proceed.

Council and commissioners discussed candidate areas (Old Town, East End, and parts of the South edge of downtown), the need for merchant buy‑in and the difficulty of precisely defining “artisan.” Multiple councilmembers supported trying Old Town first while acknowledging an effort could be shifted elsewhere if property‑owner interest is insufficient. Staff emphasized the program would include existing businesses and not only new entrants. This item was informational; no council vote was required to proceed with outreach and study.