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Commission recommends EV charging‑station code changes to City Council with downtown review requirement
Summary
The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of CDA 50‑2026, a package of definitions and zoning rules for electric vehicle charging stations, and added that large or downtown installations should be reviewed by special use permit in the M2 district to address grid, screening and aesthetic impacts.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended that City Council approve CDA 50‑2026, a code amendment establishing definitions and review standards for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
Staff explained the amendment would add definitions for charger levels (level 1, level 2, and DC fast‑charging/level 3), clarify when a charging installation is a primary use versus accessory to another business, and identify where charging is permitted across zoning districts. Staff emphasized the need to coordinate large charging projects with the city electric utility because of high grid demand at some proposed sites; one example cited showed a proposed DC fast‑charging station with a potential draw that represented a substantial portion of the city’s typical load if run at full capacity.
Commissioners discussed screening of associated electrical equipment (transformers, enclosures), lighting and signage limits, and whether downtown M2 parcels should allow charging as a principal use. Commissioner John Houten moved, and Commissioner Patrick Corcoran seconded, an amendment to allow charging as a principal use in the M2 district only by special use permit to preserve downtown character; the commission unanimously approved the recommendation to council with that condition.
Staff said the amendment largely follows a state model land‑use code but retains local sign and lighting rules and adds coordination with the city electric utility for high‑capacity projects. The recommendation moves to City Council for final action.
