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Commission directs staff to remove pavers requirement in proposed paving ordinance for several districts
Summary
The Planning Commission directed staff to draft a revised parking-surface ordinance omitting pavers for multiple zoning districts and bring the item back for public hearing; commissioners said the change aims to simplify permitting for industrial properties while retaining paving near streets to control dust and stormwater.
The Planning Commission directed staff to return a revised ordinance that would remove pavers as an allowed surface for parking and driveways in multiple residential and nonresidential zoning districts, while still requiring concrete or bituminous (asphalt) surfacing in front and side yards in specified situations.
Community Development staff explained the proposal responds to concerns from the Economic Development Authority and local businesses in industrial areas. Staff said paver installations in the city have often been “haphazardly put in” and that limiting required surfaces to concrete and bituminous will reduce maintenance and compliance issues. The proposed changes would exempt the general industrial district and Park District from some requirements; for the general industrial district staff proposes permitting Class 5 crushed concrete or crushed bituminous in the rear yard but requiring paved surfacing for parking areas in the front yard, side yard and for areas abutting public streets or alleys to minimize dust entering the storm system.
After discussion, a commissioner moved to direct staff to bring the ordinance back without pavers; a second followed. Commissioners discussed the definition of rear yard setback and whether the change would free up businesses to use property more flexibly. The motion carried on a voice vote and staff said it will return the draft ordinance for a public hearing at the next planning commission meeting.
Why it matters: the change would affect allowed surfacing materials for parking and driveways, particularly for businesses in industrial districts where large equipment or turnaround areas are common. Commissioners cited a desire to reduce permitting friction while protecting public-rights-of-way and stormwater systems.
Next steps: staff will prepare a revised ordinance removing pavers where directed and schedule it for a public hearing at the commission’s next meeting.
