Planning staff presented a draft rewrite of Riverton’s commercial architectural standards (PLZ 24‑5007) and the planning commission discussed policy direction without taking a final vote.

Staff explained the proposal would move away from a strict checklist of required architectural elements toward a standards approach that asks applicants to demonstrate consistency or cohesion within a commercial center. For centers the draft would require two major elements of consistency (e.g., a material or feature shared among buildings); standalone buildings would be asked to match one major element in their surrounding context. Staff said the change is intended to give the commission more discretion and to better accommodate contemporary architectural styles while preserving visual cohesion.

Commissioner discussion focused on three recurring items: whether windows should be allowed to run to ground level, treatment of downtown brick requirements, and a list of prohibited or limited materials. Several commissioners said glass down to the ground is acceptable and creates a more inviting street front; one member noted the current code generally requires a lower course of masonry, but staff said that requirement is largely aesthetic. Multiple commissioners supported retaining a red‑brick feel in the downtown corridor or otherwise preserving a recognizable material palette there, while allowing more flexibility elsewhere.

On prohibited materials, staff proposed restricting materials such as uncolored CMU, corrugated metal, full‑building wood cladding and pattern stucco that imitates masonry. Commissioners suggested refining that list to allow limited accents of materials such as weathered metal while excluding low‑quality “pattern stucco.” They also asked staff to revisit outdoor storage screening language (solid masonry vs. other screening) and to clarify how patios, awnings and outdoor dining elements fit the standards.

Staff said the draft will be revised based on the commission’s feedback and returned for a subsequent public hearing and formal recommendation to City Council.