Salina Planning Commission sends 2024 annual report to City Commission, readies comprehensive plan and zoning code update

The Salina Planning Commission voted to send its 2024 annual report to the Salina City Commission and outlined work ahead on a citywide comprehensive plan and an update of the city’s zoning code, planning staff said during the meeting.

Planning staff summarized 2024 activity and membership changes before the vote. "We had 35 different applications that were brought before the planning commission in 2024," Dean (planning staff) said, noting the report is organized into three exhibits covering accomplishments, attendance, and current appointments.

The report also flagged a membership change: Commissioner Mike Sell is moving from outside to inside city limits, which created a vacancy for one of the two seats that may be filled by residents living less than three miles outside the city. "That was a smooth transition," Dean said.

Why it matters: the commission identified a comprehensive plan update as a high priority. "We are due for or 15 years out or due for a newer updated citywide comprehensive plan," Dean said, adding that this time the city has money available to pursue a fuller zoning code update. "There's never been money set aside before for a full zoning code update," Dean said, and the commission would work with staff to develop a request for proposals (RFP) for both a new comprehensive plan and an overall zoning code revision.

Commissioners also discussed downtown policies. Dean cited recent examples from other Kansas cities when describing a possible local policy: "A number of communities throughout Kansas — most recently, I believe Topeka and Hays — have developed what they call common consumption areas in their downtown areas," he said. The commission plans to define boundaries and ground rules if Salina proceeds with a similar approach ahead of spring 2025.

Formal action: A motion to send the 2024 report to the City Commission was made and seconded; commissioners voted in favor and the motion carried. (The transcript records the motion and that those present voted "aye," but does not attach mover/second names or a numerical tally.)

Other planning items noted for upcoming meetings include a replat related to the United Methodist Church of the Cross property on Rush Street near Broadway and Cloud — the church site was purchased by Kansas Wesleyan University and two houses associated with the parcel will be subdivided into three lots — and a presentation introducing phase 2 of the Celina Destination project near Menards, which will include extending Virginia Drive farther south.

The commission scheduled meetings for Feb. 4 and Feb. 18. There were no public speakers at this meeting and the body adjourned after the items were concluded.