Hudson Planning Commission requests 90‑day moratorium to reorganize land‑development code; council debates timing and exemptions

Planning Commission Chair (Ms. Norman) presented a request for a 90‑day moratorium on new applications that would require public hearings (conditional uses, major site plans, public‑initiated code amendments) so the commission can prioritize and draft a set of targeted land‑development code revisions.

Norman said the commission has seen an "unprecedented number" of text amendments and wants breathing room to address definitions, density, submission requirements and other foundational items. She recommended the moratorium be limited to new applications filed after the moratorium effective date and exempt completed applications to preserve due process.

Councilors questioned whether 90 days would create a backlog and whether the moratorium should exempt governmental projects; several council members suggested a 30‑day public notice window before the moratorium takes effect or removing the emergency clause so applicants had time to finalize filings. Planning staff warned that a 30‑day buffer would reduce the commission's effective review window; commissioners said November start dates might be more practical so the commission can use the full period.

Council expressed broad support for giving the Planning Commission time to rework the code but asked staff and solicitors to craft language that addresses government project exemptions, timelines, and the emergency clause. The moratorium will be formally before council for action (with possible amendments) at the next meeting.