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Commission approves annexation/zoning ordinance; commissioners debate density tradeoffs
Summary
The commission approved second and final reading of an annexation/rezoning ordinance while several commissioners urged more intentional increases in density across west Lawrence; Vice Mayor Courtney had asked that the item be sent back to planning for potential increased density in select areas.
The Lawrence City Commission moved forward with the annexation and zoning ordinance on May 5, approving the measure on second and final reading while several commissioners urged attention to where higher‑density zoning should be encouraged across the city.
Vice Mayor Courtney asked that some of the West Lawrence areas be revisited and suggested sending portions back to the Planning Commission to consider adding higher density in order to broaden homeownership opportunities. "Density is something that shouldn't just happen on the East Side of town. It should be shared across the entire community," Courtney said during the discussion.
Commissioners said the comprehensive plan supports varied locations for future density. One commissioner expressed support for moving the ordinance forward as presented so the annexation project can continue on schedule; that motion carried 4‑2‑1 on final reading.
The vote advances the annexation and zoning changes to implementation; staff said they expect to return with subsequent plat and project review as required by city process.
