The Malden City Council on a motion by Councilor Winslow referred Paper 186-25 to a joint Planning and Rules & Ordinance committee for public hearing.

The ordinance would amend Title 12 (zoning) to clarify and update requirements for usable open space and rules governing paving of residential yard areas. Councilor Winslow described the referral as preparatory for the joint committee's May public hearing and said the item will be discussed in greater detail there.

No substantive vote on the ordinance was taken today; the referral passed by voice vote without recorded opposition. The ordinance will return to committee for public comment and potential amendment before any final council vote.