Title
Resolution to Direct Planning Commission to Evaluate Design Review Process for Downtown Buildings
Body
Whereas, The downtown built environment embodies a significant part of the city’s identity;
Whereas, Zoning regulations specify building densities, envelopes, and to a limited degree other features such as massing, articulation, materials and street presence;
Whereas, Many recommendations about building context, form, and architecture are documented in the Downtown Design Guidelines document;
Whereas, The Design Review Board is required to review proposals and provide feedback to petitioners for downtown buildings;
Whereas, Many of the Design Review Board recommendations have been implemented by petitioners and have resulted in improved outcomes, while some recommendations have not been implemented;
Whereas, Zoning has the weight of law and Design Review Board recommendations do not;
Whereas, Many residents believe that the massing and design of new downtown buildings do not live up to community aspirations; and
Whereas, Every City process should be evaluated periodically;
RESOLVED, That City Council direct the Planning Commission and staff to evaluate the performance of the current design review process against national best practices and recommend a course of action to City Council by October 15, 2018;
Sponsored by: Councilmembers Westphal, Warpehoski, Krapohl, Grand and Mayor Taylor