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Commissioners consider adding light-touch architectural standards for industrial zones
Summary
The commission discussed whether to introduce building and landscaping standards for I1 (light) and I2 (heavy) industrial zones to improve appearance near roadways while avoiding rules that would deter employers. Commissioners generally favored modest standards for I1 and stronger landscaping buffers for I2.
Consultants told the commission that chapter 1210 currently lacks architectural standards for industrial (I1/I2) zones and asked whether the city should add them. The conversation distinguished I1 (lighter industrial with office components) from I2 (heavy industrial, outdoor storage and chemical processes).
Commissioners favored a targeted approach: apply some architectural standards for I1, particularly for administrative or office-like buildings within industrial areas, while keeping I2 standards limited to landscaping, buffering and facade treatments so as not to unduly burden large employers. One commissioner said, "It still allows light manufacturing, but I1 also allows office incorporated into it," arguing that buildings intended for people should meet some design standards.
Consultants recommended drafting optional standards and examples (facade treatments, screening, landscaped berms) and then returning those examples to the commission. Commissioners asked staff to consider grandfathering for existing businesses and limiting new standards to new development where appropriate.
