Planning commission forwards Bellaire Makers District to council after unanimous vote

The Bellaire Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously on March 5 to forward a proposed Bellaire Makers District zoning ordinance to city council, approving staff's recommendation and a draft recommendation letter for transmittal. The motion to approve the CMU language and the Bellaire Makers District passed by voice vote after brief discussion about whether to add a front-height setback.

Staff summarized written public comments opposing residential or live-work units in the district, citing street parking, traffic and emergency-response concerns, and requests for road, drainage and utilities work before new zoning. The staff liaison told the commission, "we are still recommending the approval of the new Bellaire Makers District" but said the commission or council could refine front-height/setback language once the corridor mixed-use (CMU) district language is finalized. The chair noted the commission is forwarding the proposal with no residential allowance based on resident feedback.

Commissioners debated the utility of a front setback, with the chair saying the Terminal Street area is "very, very different" and may not need a setback designed to prevent a tunnel effect. After confirming the recommendation letter should be sent "as drafted," the commission authorized the chair to sign the letter for transmittal to council.

Next steps: the measure will go to city council for consideration; staff said council may vote on related CMU items at an upcoming meeting and the front-height setback could be decided at that time.