Cody council approves new downtown overlay and architectural-district rules after public comment

The City of Cody council on first reading and subsequent votes approved a set of ordinances that create a downtown overlay district, redefine the downtown architectural district, and adopt standards intended to preserve the historic character of Sheridan Avenue and adjacent blocks.

City staff said the set of ordinances—presented by Scott Kopicki as products of a planning and zoning task force—define the overlay area, state when the rules apply and list specific materials and appearance expectations for street-facing façades. Kopicki said the rules are intended to apply when an owner voluntarily demolishes and rebuilds or undertakes major redevelopment; existing buildings and façades are grandfathered and are not required to be retrofitted.

The measures describe…