Consultants present draft zoning districts and mixed‑residential option; commissioners press for architectural rules, parking and applicability

Consultants and city staff presented a draft recodification of Janesville’s zoning and subdivision ordinance and a proposed new set of base zoning districts at the Plan Commission meeting on July 7. The presentation, led by consultant Craig Huebner and Tim Schwecky, outlined a consolidated framework intended to simplify district names and allow more housing types in appropriate locations.

The consultants proposed three core residential categories: low‑density (proposed R‑1), medium‑density (R‑2) and high‑density (R‑3). Key proposed changes discussed included reducing minimum lot widths (example: proposed R‑1 lot widths down to 50 feet and minimum lot area to about 5,000 square feet), allowing duplexes by right in some districts, increasing accessory dwelling unit allowances, and permitting multiple principal structures on lots in higher‑density zones. The team also introduced a planned mixed‑residential district (R‑8) intended to allow a mix of single‑family, townhomes,…