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Council approves zone change to allow commercial use at Old City Hall
Summary
The council rezoned 708 9th Street (Old City Hall) from public reserve to C‑1 commercial to allow the vacant building to be used for commerce; the motion passed after appearance-of-fairness disclosures were discussed.
Benton City Council approved a zone change July 15 to reclassify the parcel at 708 9th Street (the former Old City Hall) from Public Reserve to C‑1 Commercial, enabling commercial reuse of the building.
Planning staff explained the parcel is currently zoned public reserve and the requested change would bring the existing building into conformance with the commercial zoning district and the comprehensive plan. City Attorney Eric reminded council that the appearance-of-fairness doctrine applies in quasi‑judicial matters and asked members to disclose any conflicts; council members discussed disclosures and proceeded.
A council member moved to approve the rezoning, citing surrounding commercial uses and the desire to return the long-vacant building to productive use. The motion passed by voice vote. No detailed conditions were recorded in the council discussion at this meeting.
Next steps: The change allows the building owner to pursue commercial occupancy and associated building-code compliance and permitting processes under the C‑1 zoning designation; staff will update land‑use records accordingly.
