05-24-12 Special Called Meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission

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REVISED DRAFT APRIL 9, 2012 and enhance community character. Along with the background, goals, and strategies in this chapter, the Future Land Use Plan visually depicts the City’s policies, particularly its priorities for well-planned infill development, protection of neighborhood integrity, and enhancement of La Porte’s appearance. To ensure the outcomes expressed by this plan, it is important to follow the guiding principles, visions, policies, and action recommendations set forth; all of which will aid the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council in their decision-making. 2.2 ǡ Throughout the planning process, a number of issues and concerns were expressed relating to land use compatibility, infill on the few remaining developable tracts, redevelopment of vacant buildings or underutilized properties, Downtown and Sylvan Beach, neighborhood protection and revitalization, and corridor design and appearance. These discussions formed the basis of the following focus areas, along with an analysis of existing conditions and review of current programs, plans, and ordinances. Each focus area contains contextual information, key planning considerations, goals, (and their rationales), and advisable implementation actions and initiatives. The areas of focus are as follows: Focus Area 1 – Transitioning to a Built-Out Community; Focus Area 2 – Quality Neighborhoods and Housing; Focus Area 3 – Enhanced Community Character; and Focus Area 4 – Adequate Parks, Recreation, and Open Space. ͳ–- Over the 20-year planning horizon of this plan, much of the remaining developable land in La Porte will be built out. As this occurs, the City’s focus will shift from new development on the City’s western periphery to smaller- scale infill development, as well as redevelopment and revitalization of the City’s existing older sites and structures. As identified during the public participation process (including feedback from the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission), there are already areas that are in need of redevelopment or revitalization. These areas are displayed in the Map 2.1, Redevelopment/Rehabilitation TargetRevitalization Areas, and include such areas as the vacant car dealerships along State Highway 146 South Frontage RoadS. 10th Street and certain residential areas like those located in the area around Downtown and the Spenwick Subdivision, among others. To reverse the disinvestment in these areas, it will require the City to establish and administer a pro-active and ongoing program for redevelopment and revitalization. Generally, redevelopment and rehabilitationrevitalization programs can comprise “one or more public actions that are undertaken to stimulate 2.2 Chapter 2