Consultant outlines plan to merge La Porte—s development code into a unified, interactive ULDC

Steve Sizemore of Kendon Keyes Collaborative gave an overview of the firm's analysis and next steps for a proposed Unified Land Development Code that would combine chapters 86 and 106 into a single, clearer document. Sizemore said the goal is to reduce conflicts between zoning (where you can build) and use regulations (what you can build there), simplify the use table by grouping similar NAICS uses into use categories, add illustrations and an online interactive format, and clarify administrative versus legislative review processes.

Council members and volunteers pressed for clarity about oversight and the role of the code-advisory committee versus the existing Chapter 106 volunteer subcommittee; staff emphasized that the advisory committee and the Planning & Zoning Commission will review drafts and that the council will be the final decision maker. Sizemore said the work will likely span about two years and include stakeholder listening sessions, with staff and the advisory committee vetting any code changes before they reach council.