Council adopts professional-office zoning changes, narrows allowed uses

The Highland City Council voted 5–0 on Aug. 19 to adopt an ordinance amending the Professional Office (PO) zoning district regulations and standards. Staff said the ordinance removes outdated exhibits, retains a one-story and traditional design requirement for buildings on the east side of Highland Boulevard, clarifies landscaping and walkable roof definitions, and prohibits industrial businesses and tattoo/piercing studios in the PO zone. The proposal also removes “natural open space” as a landscaping requirement in favor of xeriscape options. Council members discussed several technical edits during the meeting. One council member proposed and the council accepted inserting “church towers” into the list of features excluded when measuring building height, so towers would not count toward the 35-foot limit. Another member asked for clarification on exterior grille materials and screening of roof vents; staff said the intent is to avoid an industrial appearance and that required screening or alternative materials would address aesthetic concerns. Council Member Doug moved to adopt the ordinance as amended; Council Member Scott seconded. The motion passed unanimously.