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Panel seeks clearer 'half story' definition to prevent square house designs
Summary
The Jan. 20 workshop identified ambiguity in Section 82-5's 'Half Story' definition and discussed tightening the language to prevent construction of square houses that circumvent height/massing limits.
During the Jan. 20 joint workshop, council and planning commissioners flagged Section 82-5 (Definitions) for clarification, specifically the definition of "Half Story." Participants said the current wording could be interpreted to allow square house designs that undermine intended dimensional controls; the group discussed tightening the definition to better reflect building massing and roof/ceiling relationships.
No ordinance text was adopted at the workshop. The review was framed as a code‑clarification step to ensure future permit reviews align with the city's development standards; staff were asked to consider revised language for a subsequent meeting or draft ordinance.
