05/14/1990 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e distinguish which contributing properties to actually consider as Goal 5 resources and thus limited the list to those properties ranked as primary. Mike Shellenbarger, HRB Chair, reviewed the recommendations made by the HRB and the Eugene Planning Commission. He said that the HRB and the Planning Commission agree on the importance of the Millrace as a historic resource. They are recommending that work begin on creating a Special Development Zoning District and an Historic District for the Millrace area. These dis- tricts would be designed to encourage economic use of historic structures, enhancement of the Millrace, and balancing both housing and commercial needs of the area. Ms. Bishow noted that in the past, any piece of property which was not a Goal 5 resource would not be addressed. With the recommendation to examine a Special Development District and Historic District, the City can choose to acknowledge the local significance of properties which are not Goal 5 re- sources. This innovative step created great enthusiasm state-wide. Mr. Shellenbarger indicated that parking is a problem in the Millrace area. One of the possible benefits of a Special Development District might be to allow property owners the opportunity to satisfy parking requirements off- site within the district. Mr. Shellenbarger emphasized the tentativeness of this proposal; the HRB and Planning Commission are not certain at this point whether a Special Develop- ment District can be formed. Ms. Bishow prepared the council for possible issues of community concern which might be raised in the public hearing. This issues include concerns surrounding Special Development District boundary lines, the impact of the proposed district on the existing high-density residential zoning, the condi- tion of buildings in the area, and the overall impact that the special dis- trict would have on property uses and values. Ms. Bishow emphasized that the City has made no firm decisions regarding these issues. If a Special Devel- opment District can indeed be formed, the City plans to work closely with property owners to determine the nature and restrictions of activities within the proposed district. Mr. Holmer asked whether the creation of a Special Development District would change the tax status of any of the buildings in the district and whether the types of property uses currently allowed would be retained within the new district. In response, Ms. Bishow said that it is unclear how a Special Development District would affect taxes. She reiterated the importance of property owner involvement in deciding what types of uses will be allowed in that area. Responding to a question from Mr. Boles, Ms. Bishow said that it is her understanding that the University of Oregon is conceptually in support of the Special Development District so long as the University has the opportunity to remain involved in its creation. Mr. Holmer asked about the potential impact this proposal could have on a desired increase in water flow of the Millrace. In response, Mr. MINUTES--Eugene City Council Dinner/Work Session May 14, 1990 Page 2