Planning commission recommends code change to apply Midway’s Swiss/European architecture rules to "places of worship"

The Midway City Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend a code text amendment changing the language from “churches” to “places of worship,” so that new or substantially altered religious buildings must conform to the city’s Swiss/European exterior design standards.

Michael, planning staff, told commissioners the change would amend Midway City Code section 16.13.370 to require commercial and resort architectural elements for ‘‘places of worship’’ in any zone and that future proposals would be reviewed by the Visual and Architectural Committee. “Places of worship is instead of churches is what we’re talking about,” he said during the presentation.

Staff presented four general-plan policies that support the amendment, including the community vision that describes Midway as a town with Swiss character and language stating ordinances and design guidelines should be consistent with that theme. The staff report included sample findings and a list of architectural elements the VAC would use to evaluate proposals; not every element would be required in every case.

Commissioners asked about enforcement and vesting. Michael said vested applications cannot be retroactively required to meet a new code: if an applicant submits a complete application under the existing code it is deemed vested and the new rule would not apply to that project. He also said the city could modify the map or rules later if necessary.

Commissioner Craig moved the recommendation for approval with staff’s findings; the motion was seconded and the commission voted in favor. The commission’s recommendation will go to the Midway City Council for final action.

If adopted by the council, the amendment would apply to future construction, substantial alterations, and remodeling of places of worship but would not force changes on already-vested or already-built facilities. The staff report notes the VAC will review designs for consistency with the city’s adopted Swiss/European theme.