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Consultants outline goals for DeSoto zoning and subdivision code update
Summary
Freeze & Nichols consultants presented a diagnostic report identifying 12 priority issues, including modernizing outdated code, expanding administrative review where allowed by state law, enabling targeted infill/mixed-use standards, and improving usability. The project will move to writing and public engagement phases.
Wilson Kerr, project manager for Freeze & Nichols, told the council the firm's diagnostic work included interviews with development staff, frequent developers, the zoning board of adjustment and individual councilmembers. "Number 1 is modernizing an outdated code," Kerr said, and he outlined a list of issues staff and stakeholders flagged: making the code easier to use, expanding administrative review where appropriate, reducing over-reliance on planned developments (PDs), creating standards to support infill and redevelopment, expanding housing choices while maintaining character, and creating district-based overlays for key corridors.
Assistant Director Jacqueline Colton said the city had allocated funds for the diagnostic and that the next steps are to move into the writing phase; Kerr said the five-month project is on schedule and public engagement will increase during the actual code rewrite. Councilmembers suggested examples the consultants could study (Frisco, Plano, Grand Prairie, Legacy West and Addison Circle) and asked that the diagnostic emphasize implementation examples and public engagement opportunities; Kerr said drafts will be sent to staff in July and to council for review in August.
