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Council directs RFP for 3D GIS scene‑view visualizations for appearance reviews
Summary
After reviewing vendor estimates and legal and cost implications, the council voted unanimously to launch an RFP for 3D GIS scene‑view visualizations to inform appearance reviews, with staff recommending applicant‑paid cost recovery and exemptions or grants for single‑family homes to limit household impacts.
The council unanimously directed staff to issue an RFP to solicit vendor proposals for 3D GIS scene‑view visualizations to augment appearance reviews and better show massing and topography. Staff presented two vendor price ranges: WGI quoted roughly $3,000 for a basic massing model up to about $6,750 for detailed architectural models with topography; MapDevs provided higher tiers with photorealistic models in the $10,000–$15,000 range for high‑detail products.
Planner/Engineer staff explained the purpose of a scene view: "It adds that visual dimension to our review, allowing us to see a digital 3D model of a proposed structure set directly into the context of the actual surrounding neighborhood," and recommended that, if adopted, the cost should be passed through to applicants per the town's professional reimbursement policy. Councilors debated triggers and exemptions—particularly for single‑family homes—and discussed options such as exempting single‑family properties, piloting the requirement for two‑family and above, or creating a town grant to help homeowners cover costs. The council voted to pursue an RFP so staff can get a broader range of competitive quotes before amending code or adopting a final policy.
