Title
Conduct a public hearing and consider adopting Ordinance No. 3927 amending Article 6, “Administration” of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance to increase the required notification boundary for public hearings related to zoning cases; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Planning Department
BACKGROUND:
During the March 4, 2025, Study Session meeting, the City Council reviewed and discussed notification procedures related to zoning cases. Currently, written notices are mailed to all owners of property within 200 feet of any zoning request, as outlined by State law. Additional measures taken to notify the public of upcoming zoning hearings include posting signs on site, providing case information on the City’s website, and publication in the newspaper.
After the discussion, the City Council provided direction that the required boundary for written notifications should be increased beyond 200 feet in order to enhance public awareness and engagement with the zoning process. A 300-foot radius was suggested, subject to further review and discussion through the public hearing process. As a result, the City is initiating a text amendment to Article 6, “Administration,” of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (CZO). This amendment would affect the required public notification boundary for both the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) and the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).
FISCAL IMPACT:
Minor increase in mailing costs.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
RECOMMENDATION:
On May 12, 2025, the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed amendment unanimously (300-ft buffer).
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Ordinance No. 3927 as presented.
2. I move to approve Ordinance No. 3927 with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
4. I move to deny Ordinance No. 3927.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Information Memorandum
2. Ordinance No. 3927
3. Additional Documents
4. Presentation