Council approves first-reading zoning change on N Lane to allow multifamily construction

Council approved on first reading a land-use map amendment and accompanying zoning change to R4 multiple-family residential for four parcels on N Lane. Staff and the planning commission recommended approval to regularize three existing apartment buildings that are nonconforming under current B2 commercial zoning and to allow the new owner to construct an additional apartment building on the vacant lot.

Council members asked technical questions about parcel numbering discrepancies (state GIS vs. city numbering), a typographical PUD overlay entry that staff pledged to remove prior to second reading, and parking calculations. The applicant's architect told council the submitted plan was conceptual and that any final design would ensure required parking and follow detailed permitting. Councilwoman Smith highlighted environmental constraints on two rear parcels that cross East Fork Poplar Creek and include floodplain and wetlands; staff and the applicant said buildable area and access will be reviewed in subsequent approvals.

The amendment to the zoning ordinance (first reading) was approved by council and will return for a required second reading with corrections to the PUD language.