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Commission recommends 'useable' greenspace and staff-approved amenities for multi-family developments
Summary
The Planning Commission recommended an amendment to require multi-family developments to include useable greenspace and amenities with location and design to be approved by staff; commissioners asked staff to check threshold numbers with the city attorney.
Ephraim — The Ephraim City Planning Commission voted May 13 to recommend changes to the city code that would require greenspace and amenities in multi-family developments and to add the phrase "useable amenities and location to be approved by staff." The motion included the staff-approved location requirement to avoid nonfunctional landscaping.
City Planner Megan Spurling reviewed the proposed changes and commissioners discussed what counts as "useable" greenspace. Commissioner Larry Smith asked whether the thresholds (for example, whether the requirement applies to developments of 10 units or more) were consistent with other ordinance language; Spurling said she would consult the city attorney but believed the proposed threshold would work. Commissioners emphasized examples and wording to ensure space is actively usable rather than decorative planting.
Planning Commissioner Desiree Funk moved to recommend approval of the greenspace and amenities ordinance with the addition that amenities be "useable" and that location be approved by staff; Commissioner Larry Smith seconded. The motion carried.
Next steps: staff will consult the city attorney on thresholds and refine the landscaping ordinance language; Planning Commission members may assist with a public open house and outreach when the proposed regulations are scheduled for broader public discussion.
