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Councilmembers propose ordinance review for large utilities in industrial zones; agencies urge narrower language and outreach
Summary
Councilmembers Odette Ramos and Germaine Jones introduced an amendment to require City Council review (by ordinance) for placement of large utility facilities in I‑1 and I‑2 industrial zones. Planning staff and the mayor’s office warned the current language is broad ("utilities" includes gas lines, power lines, alternative energy, fiber and more)
Councilmembers Odette Ramos and Germaine Jones told the Land Use and Transportation Committee they would introduce an amendment to Council Bill 2500006 to make the placement of large utility facilities in I‑1 and I‑2 industrial districts subject to City Council review by ordinance rather than only a conditional use process.
"What this basically does is currently in industrial I1s and I2s the placement of large utilities … would be a conditional use by board. What we're proposing to do just in I‑1s and I‑2s, to make that conditional by ordinance," said Councilwoman Odette Ramos, describing the amendment as a transparency measure intended to give communities a fuller public process than a zoning hearing alone.
Why sponsors proposed it
Ramos and Jones said the amendment is intended to create a more transparent hearing process for…
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