Memorandum 16-103 Amending Central Business (CBD), Residential Office (RO), and Urban Residential Districts (UR)

Memorandum 16-103

TO:                       MAYOR WYTHE AND HOMER CITY COUNCIL

THROUGH:       KATIE KOESTER, CITY MANAGER

FROM:                 RICK ABBOUD, CITY PLANNER

DATE:                  JUNE 2, 2016

SUBJECT:         Draft Ordinance Amending Central Business (CBD), Residential Office (RO), and Urban Residential Districts (UR).

Introduction

A petition was received by the Planning Office requesting a zoning change.  The City Planner has reviewed the proposed amendment and the HAPC has held a public hearing on May 4, 2016 regarding this issue. Public testimony was provided by two citizens at the meeting who supported the proposed zoning changes.

Why

The Pratt Museum had purchased several of the neighboring lots and combined them into one lot. The neighboring lots were zoned Urban Residential and Residential Office, while the part of the lot with the existing structures was zoned as Central Business District. Obtaining consistent zoning for the entire lot allows them to proceed with their current plans to replace the existing structure. After an approval of a zoning change, the Pratt would be able to apply for a CUP for the replacement structure and other associated improvements proposed for the lot.

The proposed rezone represents a contiguous expansion of the Central Business District. This proposal encourages business growth in the central area of the city, as found as an Objective in the comprehensive plan.

Staff and Planning Commission recommendation:

With one Commissioner recused and another absent, the Commission voted unanimously in favor, 5-0 recommending the adoption of the Draft Ordinance by the City Council.

Attachments:

Draft Ordinance
HAPC minutes 5.4.16
Staff Report 16-22 w/attachments