Planning commission accepts Item 3, staff outlines 2026 general plan timeline and outreach

The Planning & Zoning commission accepted Item 3 as written after the chair opened a public hearing, found no public comment and put the item to a vote.

A commissioner moved to accept Item 3; another commissioner seconded the motion. The commission voted in favor, with the chair announcing “7 in favor of the motion” and the motion carrying.

During the meeting commissioners and planning staff discussed a proposed setback reduction and whether nearby alleys or public utility easements (PUEs) would affect trash‑enclosure placement and utility access. Planning staff said that if public utility easements extend beyond a rear property line they would be accounted for and that screened trash enclosures must meet Republic Services’ standards and provide clear access.

A participant asked whether the term “alley” was defined in the city code; staff said definitions are available in the code and that municipal code text, including the amended section, is available online and in meeting materials. A participant located the proposed amendment to Title 17, Chapter 17.38 in the meeting binder.

Commissioners and staff also discussed the city’s decennial general plan update: staff said the state requires an update every 10 years and the city plans multiple meetings in April, May and June to solicit public feedback. Staff expects to have a draft 2026 general plan within weeks and aims to ask the city council for a recommendation at the second council meeting in June. A committee member noted that the council would set the plan for the election and that the plan is subject to voter approval in November; a voter pamphlet would follow if the council places it on the ballot.

Staff said outreach will include social media and public meetings, supported by the city’s public information office, and that the 2016 general plan is available on the city website under Development Services (Planning and Zoning). The meeting adjourned after routine reports and no further public comment.