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Planning commission reviews draft zoning‑code amendments including affordable housing changes and parkland fee formula
Summary
Staff previewed a package of zoning‑code amendments (map changes, building type clarifications, special‑exception standards, affordability provisions and a revised parkland fee formula tied to unit size) and solicited comments; commission members largely supported the clarifications and suggested minor adjustments before the package moves to City Council.
Planning staff presented draft zoning‑code amendments for initial input on May 12, covering a map change for the North Front/N Allen area, adjustments to general building types and allowable stories for certain affordable housing, new special‑exception standards for small general buildings, strengthened nonconformities language, a 300‑foot separation for tobacco sales near schools/childcare/places of worship, and a change to parkland dedication fee calculations to base fees on bedrooms for 7+ unit apartment buildings rather than a flat multiplier.
Staff said the changes are intended to clarify regulations adopted during the recent code rewrite, address implementation issues identified in early use and remove ambiguities that have surfaced in review. The commission discussed allowing pitched roofs on certain general buildings, accommodating affordable housing design flexibility (including the ability to use alternative façade materials for 100% affordable projects), and the rationale for a per‑bedroom parkland fee approach to avoid disproportionate fees on studio‑heavy buildings.
Commissioners expressed general support and suggested minor edits; staff noted that a data center ordinance would be before the CED committee later in the week and that an amended land development (2401 Amaz Avenue) will be processed under the updated code with required adjustments.
No formal vote was required; staff will take commission feedback, revise as needed and transmit the amendments to City Council for formal introduction and adoption.
