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Commission recommends code change allowing limited height exceptions for accessory recreation buildings
Summary
The commission recommended a code amendment to allow accessory recreational buildings that are part of religious/cultural properties to exceed accessory-structure height limits by up to 5 feet when four approval criteria are met; the motion passed 4–1 after debate about long-term precedent and notice.
Staff presented a targeted code amendment to permit limited height exceptions for accessory recreation buildings associated with religious and cultural meeting halls. The proposed language caps the exception at five feet above the zone’s accessory height limit and lists four criteria for approval: necessity for the indoor use, minimizing visual impacts, avoiding substantial adverse impacts on neighbors, and strict compliance with setbacks.
Jacob Baker, the applicant for the project that motivated the amendment, said the higher clear‑ceiling was primarily intended to enable competitive volleyball courts; he cited local schools’ gym dimensions and said a 30‑foot clear ceiling is considered ideal for volleyball. "With volleyball, 30 feet is what's considered ideal," Baker said, noting other local school gyms have similar total parapet heights.
Commission debate focused on whether the code should give staff and future applicants flexibility or preserve a stricter, black‑and‑white standard. One commissioner voted no, saying the change could invite applications in less‑appropriate locations; four commissioners voted yes to recommend the amendment to council. Staff confirmed standard site‑plan notice procedures will apply so adjacent property owners will receive notice when a taller accessory recreation building is proposed.
