Boulder Planning Commission outlines comprehensive approach to rewrite general plan and zoning code

The Boulder Town Planning Commission on Feb. 17, 2026, directed staff and outside advisors to develop a structured framework to update the town’s general plan and zoning code. Commissioners favored a comprehensive, simultaneous approach — rather than piecemeal edits — and assigned staff and advisors to prepare materials for presentation to the Town Council.

Kevin Smedley, community advisor with the Five County Association of Governments, told commissioners the current zoning code spans 136 pages and is “substantially longer than most towns require,” and he referenced Utah Code Title 10, Chapter 20 as outlining the state’s minimal requirements for zoning ordinances. Chair Nancy Tosta proposed starting with a blank‑slate framework that identifies state‑required sections and then maps the town’s policies into a learner‑friendly structure. Town Attorney Michael Winn volunteered to assist in outlining state requirements; Smedley agreed to help develop the framework.

Commissioners described work already done by assigned members: Phoenix Bunke completed the economic development chapter; Nick Vincent reviewed housing and cross‑referenced zoning provisions; Elena Hughes worked on environmental sections that were not included in the meeting packet. Commissioners discussed reducing redundant policies, improving format (goals followed by policies and actions), using survey and forum data to validate goals, and adding a capital investment chapter that will require Town Council input.

Chair Tosta said she will draft a memorandum to the Town Council describing a comprehensive approach and the proposed public engagement process. The commission assigned a March 3 deadline for completing section revisions ahead of the council memo; Kevin Smedley and Michael Winn will develop the zoning state‑requirements framework. The commission also assigned two commissioners to serve on a staff interview committee scheduled for Feb. 23, 9:00 a.m.–noon.

During general public comment, Jennifer Bach offered assistance with formatting documents and urged commissioners to consider whether survey responses represent the town’s demographic diversity. Mark Nelson urged the commission to adopt a clear vision statement before allowing zoning language to effectively become the town’s mission. The commission set its next meeting for March 17, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.

No formal public hearing was held at this meeting; the minutes list the zoning code work and the general plan as items that will return to future agendas for public forums and additional review.