Council hears proposal to rezone parcels near Jackson Taylor Park for redevelopment

The Jamestown City Council on July 14 heard a staff presentation about proposed zoning changes to allow repurposing of lots and vacant warehouses near Jackson Taylor Park.

City staff described a map of the area roughly bounded by West Sixth Street, Monroe, the Riverwalk, and Eleventh Street and said the changes under consideration would allow smaller minimum lot sizes and new uses for idle parcels. "We're asking to repurpose some of that property down there," Councilmember Sheldon said during the discussion.

The proposal would reduce the minimum lot size in parts of the area — staff cited an example of lowering a minimum from about 8,000 square feet to 5,000 square feet — to make infill development and conversions of vacant buildings more feasible. Staff advised that the existing municipal code is available through the city's eCode portal and that detailed amendment language will be provided to the planning commission.

Casey, economic development coordinator, said the planning commission will receive the formal presentation the next day and that staff welcome questions about possible uses and investment opportunities for the parcels. Crystal (staff member) was identified as a contact for specific amendment language and the map.

No zoning ordinance was adopted at the meeting. Councilmembers and staff framed the item as a referral to the planning commission and full council for additional discussion and formal hearing at a later date.

Why it matters: rezoning could change allowable uses and lot standards for an area that includes long-vacant parcels and older warehouses, potentially enabling residential infill, new businesses or conversions that affect nearby neighborhoods and the Riverwalk corridor.

The planning commission is scheduled to consider the item; staff said a map and proposed code language are available on request.