Bonwood residents urge ‘estate residential’ designation as city moves to replace zoning code

Dozens of residents from the Bonwood subdivision urged the Board of Mayor and Aldermen on Aug. 28 to adopt an “estate residential” (also called “state residential” in planning materials) designation for their neighborhood as part of a broader replacement of the city’s zoning ordinance and official zoning map.

Residents said they moved to Bonwood for large lots, privacy and a rural character and argued the new zoning map’s recommended R‑1 (low-density residential) designation does not match those expectations. “We bought it as a place where our children could play outside and have the freedom to explore,” said Jennifer Seekeroon, who identified herself as a Bonwood resident and mother. “Please rezone Bonwood as estate residential so we can continue to live the way we have.”

The request came during a workshop largely devoted to a comprehensive rewrite of the city’s zoning code. The draft ordinance before the board would repeal the existing zoning ordinance and map, adopt a new zoning ordinance and map and amend Title 14 of the municipal code. Planning staff and the planning commission spent more than three years preparing the draft; the planning commission gave a favorable recommendation on July 29.

Why it matters: the new zoning ordinance is citywide and will control permitted uses, lot sizes and development standards.…