Council approves design adjustment to use cement-fiber siding on city services center after planning commission rejection
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Summary
The council overturned a planning-commission denial and approved a design adjustment allowing fiber-cement siding (Hardie board) for the city services center façade, citing cost, durability and the city’s inability to meet form-based-code material requirements within project budget.
The Moline City Council on July 22 approved a design adjustment appeal allowing fiber-cement (Hardie) siding on the city services center’s street-facing facades after the Planning Commission rejected the same request in a narrow vote.
City staff explained the project’s background: a scope that began as interior work expanded into exterior repairs after crews discovered long-term moisture damage under existing wood siding. Staff said matching the building’s historic brick or block facades would be costly, could produce a mismatched “patchwork” appearance and would likely push the renovation over the current budget. Staff recommended Hardie board as a durable, cost-effective material that would provide a uniform exterior and a longer service life.
The Planning Commission initially tabled the design adjustment and later denied the request by a 4–3 vote. The city appealed that denial to the council. In the appeal presentation, staff said the form-based code’s material standards are aimed primarily at new construction and suggested the council consider an amendment to apply different standards for existing buildings. Staff said the city lacks a practical, budget-feasible option to meet the strict material thresholds without jeopardizing the renovation.
Council members asked about process and whether the city would pursue a broader code amendment that creates a pathway for existing buildings. Staff said they plan to propose changes to the form-based code for existing buildings to allow a limited set of accepted materials that balance cost and design quality. After discussion, the council approved the design-adjustment appeal and authorized the fiber-cement siding for the north and east facades, saying the choice preserves building usability and keeps the project within budget.
The council instructed staff to return with recommended code amendments to address form-based-code requirements for existing buildings more broadly. The motion passed by recorded voice vote; planning-commission concerns and the need for clear guidance for future projects were noted.