Commission reopens debate on 2023 lot‑width changes; staff says rules aimed to align zoning with comprehensive plan

Commissioner Ring reopened a conversation about amendments to Chapter 24 adopted in 2023 that reduced minimum lot‑width requirements in some parts of the city, saying the changes produced unintended consequences and prompted resident concern. "We cut substantially on those two," Ring said referencing two designations that moved from 75‑foot to 50‑ and 40‑foot lot widths, and he asked staff to present the rationale.

Amanda Askew, planning staff, told the commission those adjustments were intended to match lot‑width rules with the comprehensive‑plan future land‑use densities so that property owners would have consistent development options. "The minimum lot sizes should correspond to the density allowed for that district," Askew said, explaining the change allowed the same number of dwelling units but provided more flexibility to develop townhomes or two single‑family homes rather than increasing unit counts. Commissioners questioned whether the change preserves trees and green space, how many undeveloped 50‑foot parcels remain, and the legal constraints posed by Senate Bill 180. Staff said existing platted lots are grandfathered and that changing the comprehensive plan and zoning remains an option but carries statutory and procedural steps.