Planning staff seeks consultant funds to craft downtown zoning overlay

Planning staff told the council they are requesting funds to prepare a downtown zoning overlay intended to establish architectural style, permitted uses, setbacks and design standards for an approximately defined downtown area.

The presenter said the overlay would cover an area roughly 200 feet north and south and up to about 300 feet east and west toward the highway curve and would be prepared by the consultant who produced the downtown master plan. "This is our big ask," the presenter said, citing the consultant estimate of about $37,000 and a requested $45,000 line item to include contingency.

Council members discussed alternatives to a formal overlay, including using the general plan to designate a downtown mixed‑use area, and raised concerns about resident pushback when zoning changes affect existing properties. One council member suggested a work session to refine the scope and consider a catalyst project — such as using the civic center site to spur downtown redevelopment — before committing to consultant funding.

Staff framed the overlay as a tool to encourage walkable, mixed‑use infill while preserving flexibility for existing property owners. Council discussion touched on examples from nearby cities, differences between overlays and a general‑plan approach, and the need to balance design standards with political feasibility.

The council did not take a formal vote; staff said they would prepare further information and consider scheduling a work session to explore options and cost implications in more detail.