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

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the density/intensity and Same Use; Different Character design of development is of much greater importance if the City is to enhance its character. Actions and Initiatives 1)Consider revising Revise the district purpose statements to define the intended character of the district, rather than general use types. For instance, the purpose of the R-1, Low Density Residential District is “for low-density, While the use is the same, the character of these individual developmetns is single-family detached much different by way of lot sizes, setback, street configurations, and the dwellings…” Instead, density and spacing of development. The character may again change the purpose may should the center property develop. The value of a character-based zoning indicate the district is system is a preservation of character and hence property values. This suburban in nature, segment along N. P Street features three adjacent areas developed for characterized by a single-family residential use, but each exhibiting a much different balance between the character—Auto-Urban on the left, Rural in the middle, and Suburban on landscape and the right. These character types are elaborated later in this chapter. buildings, which may Source: Kendig Keast Collaborative. be large lots or smaller lots clustered around public open space. Open space and low impervious surface ratios characterize the built environment. 2)Consider recalibrating Recalibrate the density and open space ratios of each zoning district and revise the dimensional standards to reflect the intended character. For instance, the setbacks and lot widths and coverage should vary by character, with small setbacks and higher coverage for neighborhoods of an urban character and larger setbacks and lower coverage for suburban and rural neighborhoods. 3)Consider identifying Identify established neighborhoods with cohesive character and community identity and create neighborhood conservation districts to protect and promote the existing neighborhood feel. In addition, allow for reasonable improvements in these existing neighborhoods without cumbersome variance procedures. Include by- right standards for making improvements to buildings to ensure that they remain in character with the neighborhood and do not adversely impact the use and enjoyment of neighboring properties. 2.33 LAND USE & DEVELOPMENT 2.33 Adopted July 20, 2009