01-17-13 Regular Meeting and Workshop of the Planning and Zoning Commission

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Staff Report January 17, 2013 Zoning Ordinance & Development Ordinance Review Background: Chapter 106 "Zoning" of the City's Code of Ordinances, Section 106-65 directs the Planning and Zoning Commission to conduct a regular comprehensive review of the Zoning Ordinance together with the Development Ordinance of the City. The purpose of a review is to determine whether the chapter has become deficient, obsolete, and inadequate for any reason including the following: 1. Defects in the original text. 2. Defects in the zoning map. 3. Deficiencies created by improper or lax administration and subsequent amendments to the original ordinance which are inconsistent, conflicting or ambiguous. 4. Inconsistency with state statutes or judicial decisions. In addition, the City of La Porte Comprehensive Plan 2020 identifies issues, needs, assets, and challenges related to redevelopment efforts. The recently completed Comprehensive Plan Update 2012 encourages review of the zoning and development ordinances in order to improve use compatibility, conserve natural resources and open spaces, and contribute to a fiscally responsible pattern of urban growth. One of the primary action items for implementation is to prepare a Unified Development Code or modifications of regulatory provisions to ensure an effective transition from the Comprehensive Plan to the implementing regulations. To move forward, staff suggests an overall review of the current Zoning Ordinance. In addition, several changes/additions to the Development Ordinance and subsequent amendments require the Commission's review and should be codified to become part of the City's Code of Ordinances. Actions by the Commission: 1. Discuss the Issues 2. The Commission may elect to: ➢ Form a Sub -Committee ➢ Direct Staff to develop a recommendation & arrange public hearing ➢ Make a Recommendation to City Council at the conclusion of public hearing