Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Codes topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves first reading of Chapter 50 code updates addressing ADA, parking and landscaping
Summary
On first reading the Bristol City Council approved three Chapter 50 updates to remove discriminatory clinic-specific language, modernize off-street parking rules, and require landscaping plans for certain site developments; vote 5-0.
The Bristol City Council granted first reading by caption to three proposed amendments to Chapter 50 of the city code on Jan. 12.
Director Jay Detrick summarized the package: the first amendment removes sections that singled out methadone and controlled substance clinics after staff determined the language violated the Americans with Disabilities Act, reclassifying such facilities as medical clinics without extra permitting requirements. The second update modernizes off-street parking requirements that have not been updated since the 1960s, reduces unnecessary parking mandates, requires paved parking lots, and moves oversight to the zoning administrator, who may grant variances subject to reporting to council. The third change requires developers to submit landscaping plans for new developments or redevelopments requiring a site plan, including guidance to use native species suited to southwest Virginia to reduce runoff and support ecology.
Staff recommended approval on first reading; City Manager Randall Eads read the ordinance by caption (Ordinance 26-1). Council approved first reading 5-0 (moved by Neal Osborne; seconded by Michael Pollard). The ordinance proceeds to subsequent readings as required by the city code before final adoption.
