Council discusses renaming 'Downtown Historic District Retail Overlay' to 'Retail Overlay'

Councilmembers discussed renaming an agenda item currently titled “Downtown Historic District retail overlay zone” to a shorter, clearer title: “retail overlay.”

Councilmember Joe said the existing title is misleading because the proposal addresses retail regulations rather than creating a new zone and covers areas beyond the downtown historic district. He said, “it's kind of a misnomer to call it that.”

Staff noted the agenda materials were prepared the previous week and that changing the title would require updating the agenda bill and any attachments that use the same phrasing. Councilmember John and other members agreed the proposed change should be handled as a Monday agenda motion so materials can be updated consistently. Mona, a staff member mentioned by council, was identified as the person who would make the textual changes.

The ordinance language itself appears under a separate item described as “ordinance amending SMC 17 retail use requirements in downtown historic district zone.” Council discussion focused on labeling and public clarity; no final action to rename the item was taken during the meeting, and council directed staff to return with updated wording if necessary for the next meeting.