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Council approves first passage of B‑1 business‑neighborhood zoning amendments, 8–2
Summary
The council approved first passage of amendments to the B‑1 business‑neighborhood zoning table, expanding allowable neighborhood commercial uses; the vote was 8 in favor, 2 opposed and 1 absent after heated debate about neighborhood character and liquor licenses.
The Salem City Council voted for first passage of an amendment to the B‑1 business‑neighborhood zoning table that expands permissible neighborhood commercial uses in B‑1 zones. The motion for first passage passed by roll call, 8–2 with one member absent.
Councilor Cohen, who moved the measure, said the amendment modernizes zoning in older mixed-use neighborhoods and helps support walkable neighborhood amenities such as small grocery stores, childcare and neighborhood businesses. "The majority of Americans and people in Salem want to live within walking distance of neighborhood amenities," Cohen said during debate.
Opponents argued the change could alter neighborhood character and hurt existing residential conversions. Councilor Jerzillo, who said he represents a unique neighborhood, cited historic examples of commercial-to-residential transitions on Derby Street and said he would not support the change. Councilor Jerslow and Councilor Harvey cast the two recorded no votes; council roll-call results recorded eight yes votes and two no votes.
Supporters said the amendment does not bypass existing permitting processes and regulatory enforcement; uses such as restaurants serving alcohol may still require additional review or special permits. Councilors who supported the change emphasized the zoning reflects existing neighborhood conditions where commercial uses historically coexisted with housing.
The vote was for first passage; the amendment will return for additional readings required by city procedure before final adoption. Councilors also discussed possible neighborhood-specific concerns and enforcement considerations during the committee and permitting processes that follow the first-passage vote.
