Planners recommend standards for reconstructing noncomplying commercial buildings

The Planning Commission on April 15 recommended adoption of Ordinance 2026-10, revising Chapter 10-21 to allow reconstruction of noncomplying buildings in the Central Commercial and Village Commercial zones under specified conditions. Exhibit B would permit complete reconstruction, including foundation replacement, provided the new building remains within the existing footprint or any extensions are made compliant with code, other development standards are brought into compliance, and the reconstructed building does not exceed the original height (with a narrow two-foot exception for building-code compliance).

The draft includes limitations intended to prevent serial reconstructions: a noncomplying building may be reconstructed once under these standards after May 13, 2026; subsequent redevelopment must conform to current land-use regulations. The draft also clarifies that noncompliant buildings reconstructed under these provisions retain their noncomplying status and that nonconforming uses are retained if reestablished within 90 days of final inspection.

Commissioners expressed support for the language as a way to preserve downtown vitality while providing reasonable rebuilding paths for older structures. Paul Zimmerman moved the recommendation; the motion passed unanimously (Kruschke: Aye; McCulloch: Aye; Zimmerman: Aye). The council will review the commission's recommendation as the next step.