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Council debates allowing fee‑in‑lieu instead of 20% open space for small developments
Summary
Councilors discussed whether to permit developers to meet the code’s 20% open‑space requirement by paying into a fund rather than dedicating on‑site green space, with members noting maintenance burdens for small developments.
Councilors discussed changes to the village code that would let smaller developers pay a fee instead of dedicating the code‑required 20% common open space on site for planned unit developments (PD/PRD).
A council member noted the zoning code currently requires a minimum of 20% of a PD/PRD site be set aside for common open space unless conservation mechanisms in section 12.94 are used. Several councilors said small developments often produce strips of undeveloped land that become difficult to maintain and suggested allowing a fee‑in‑lieu or other alternatives for small projects while keeping on‑site open space for larger developments.
Discussion participants proposed options including making the exchange optional to developers, setting a unit threshold (for example, developments under a certain number of houses), or requiring an HOA for maintenance when on‑site open space is provided. Councilors said any change would require drafting amended language and that staff should examine how to structure a fee‑in‑lieu program to ensure funds are directed to usable park improvements rather than neglected parcels.
No formal motion or change to the zoning code was adopted during the meeting; councilors asked staff to draft options with model language for future consideration.
