Ithaca's Common Council on Nov. 19 approved a package of zoning changes for the South Side neighborhood intended to expand housing density and remove certain parking and single‑family zoning restrictions, voting 8–1. The ordinance establishes South Side form districts and rezones portions of the city to encourage a wider range of housing types.

Supporters at the meeting and during the public‑hearing period urged the council to act on affordability and historic exclusionary practices. "This rezoning proposal, while not a comprehensive solution, is an important first step," said Sam Poole, an Ithaca resident, who argued that mandatory minimum off‑street parking and single‑ and two‑family zoning have reduced housing availability and disproportionately affected South Side residents. Multiple speakers likewise urged the council to remove parking minimums to reduce car dependence and open additional housing opportunities.

Council debate acknowledged both the housing goals and neighborhood character concerns. Aldersperson (Councilmember) Kiel said he would vote against the ordinance, arguing technical provisions could render many historic South Side homes nonconforming. Kiel cited prior council decisions and remaining requirements such as minimum lot sizes and roof‑pitch standards, saying, "I really appreciated the speaker who came and talked about the nonconforming buildings that would be included in this." Kiel recorded the lone no vote.

Aldersperson Letterman, who moved the ordinance, and other supporters emphasized the lengthy community process and the need to put updated, form‑based rules on the books before a broader citywide zoning rewrite. "It is better to get this in and have it on the books before we do the comprehensive zoning review," said Aldersperson Zamperes, noting the public input that shaped the proposal.

The council also adopted the environmental determinations required to move the ordinance forward (lead‑agency designation and a negative declaration). The South Side amendments passed by an 8–1 tally, with Kiel opposed. The council indicated technical revisions and a continued conversation about design details — particularly roof shapes, dormer widths and massing — will continue as staff and council refine implementation.

Next steps include codifying the ordinance into the Ithaca Municipal Code and monitoring any required implementation details from staff. The council did not vote to make broader citywide zoning changes at this meeting; supporters and opponents both said a comprehensive rewrite remains on the horizon.