ZAP workgroup outlines proposed split between site-specific zoning and citywide planning

Members of a Zoning and Planning Commission workgroup described a proposed framework on July 15 for which land-use matters should be handled by ZAP (site-specific zoning body) and which should go to the Planning Commission (policy-focused body).

The workgroup said it wants site-specific matters — zoning cases, site-specific conditional overlays, amendments, variances, density bonuses, plats, conditional-use permits, covenants and neighborhood amendments — to remain with ZAP. The workgroup proposed that policy- or citywide items — neighborhood and area plans, downtown density bonuses, citywide land-use category changes and new transit-oriented-development (TOD) zoning types — be reviewed by the Planning Commission.

"Real general things that are site specific would go to us, whereas things that are planning, more policy based would go to the planning commission," the workgroup reported. Members noted uncertainty about how to classify some PUDs and PDAs and said those items may need case-by-case assignment.

Workgroup members said they will compile the proposed list in a shared Google document and distribute it to the full Zoning and Planning Commission before the next meeting; once ZAP members agree, they intend to reach out to the Planning Commission to coordinate and seek mutual agreement.

Commissioners said the goal is to reduce duplicated review and lengthy meetings at the Planning Commission by clarifying the division of labor.

No formal vote was taken; the item was discussed as part of committee reports and will be returned for further discussion after the draft list is distributed.