Item 2C: Initiation of Code Amendment for Downtown Zoning District

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were based on the initial list of items recommended by ERAC and the Planning Commission, as noted above. In addition to the public workshop, staff created a web site and online survey to provide information and to solicit additional comments. The online survey was modified from the workshop survey in minor ways, such as the order and wording of the questions, based on comments received at the public workshop (see Attachment B). In total, 54 surveys were received, including 19 online surveys. In general, for every question, the majority of respondents wanted to see changes in the code regulations for downtown rather than maintain the status quo. Some comments provided very specific suggestions, such as "make bike parking a public utility." Many comments, however, reflected the complexity of the issues and the need for knowledge on these issues, such as "I don't have enough expertise to voice an opinion..." Other comments voiced strong support for a vibrant, densely developed downtown. There were also many questions on the issue of boundaries relating to various downtown regulations and comments suggesting that these be clarified and simplified. Sixteen responses were given to the question of what zoning or code regulations should be considered other than those listed as examples in the survey. Eight respondents cited green building or sustainable concepts and four suggested design review. In summary, the comments indicated community interest, the need for more information, and strong affirmative support to proceed in re-examining codes and zoning regulations related to downtown (see Attachment C). Phase Two: Outreach and Recommendations Phase Two will occur after the City Council has initiated the code amendment for downtown-related issues. This phase will include the development of a Citizen Involvement Plan for review and approval by the Planning Commission and will culminate in public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council. More extensive outreach and public participation will include property and business owners, potential developers, area residents and other key stakeholders. Small focus group discussions will be held, in addition to a large scale public workshop. More information on the projected scope of work for Phase Two, including proposed group composition and timelines, will be presented to the Planning Commission after the City Council takes action to initiate the code amendment. Financial and/or Resource Considerations No additional financial assistance is requested for this project at this time. Project costs will be covered through existing departmental work assignments. Timing Prompt action is recommended. The momentum for downtown development is growing, and significant discussion of new projects is underway. Timely action to begin the dialogue on amending the land use code to include an appropriate overlay zoning district for downtown will help support and encourage desired downtown development. LICMOl2006 Council AgendasIM060724IS0607242C.doc