Nampa council approves $40,000 contract addendum to produce downtown form‑based code and design standards

The Nampa City Council voted 5–1 to authorize up to $40,000 from the Development Services fund to add form‑based code and design‑standards work to the downtown implementation plan contract with Downtown Redevelopment Services (DRS), on the condition that the Nampa Development Corporation match the funding.

Rodney Ashby, planning and zoning director, told council the city contracted DRS in late 2024 and the implementation plan identified form‑based code as a top priority. He said the city’s current design standards emphasize historic buildings and are “very difficult to apply to new modern buildings in the downtown zone.” He described form‑based code as focusing on building form, placement and public space relationships rather than only land use.

Ashby said form‑based code would reduce the number of conditional‑use hearings and make the process more predictable for developers. “If it follows the code, they can pull a permit and start construction,” he said, adding that form‑based standards would also guide the Arts and Historic Preservation Commission on what to require and would create a “cohesive look for downtown buildings.”

Council members asked whether the change would be more restrictive; Ashby and the consultant responded that the intent is to clarify design rules and streamline land‑use entitlements rather than add unnecessary barriers. The project will include public outreach: Ashby said there were “opportunities for people to provide input” during earlier form‑code work and that the consultant will again convene developers and the public.

Council member Reynolds voted no; the motion carried 5–1. Staff said the contract addendum will move forward only if the Nampa Development Corporation provides the match.

Council approved the item after a motion, second and roll‑call vote; staff will return with contract paperwork and a public outreach schedule.