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Commission backs open‑space residential changes and asks to prioritize tree‑ordinance update
Summary
Commissioners approved text amendments to consolidate open‑space options, lower densities, add setbacks/buffers, and cap units in most areas; several commissioners urged staff to prioritize a separate tree‑ordinance update to align standards.
Planning staff presented a sweeping amendment to open‑space residential rules (CZ2026‑040) intended to consolidate options, reduce permitted densities for open‑space developments, cap the number of units unless the site is in a higher‑density future land use area, and add roadside and exterior buffer/setback standards. Staff recommended the change as a compromise between developers, commission members and concerned citizens.
Commissioners repeatedly thanked staff and development stakeholders for collaborative work on the package and urged the county to prioritize a contemporaneous update to the tree ordinance so that all supporting documents are consistent. Commissioner Phillips asked whether the open‑space matrix and tree ordinance had been updated; staff said a revised tree ordinance exists but needs to be “pulled back off the shelf” for further work. The commission voted to recommend approval; staff will forward the recommendation to Planning & Development and County Council.
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