Commission backs code change to define 'acre' and 'developable acre' for density calculations

The Willard City Planning Commission on April 2 recommended that the City Council add explicit definitions for the terms "acre" and "developable acre" to the city zoning code.

Staff and commissioners said the change is intended to remove ambiguity about density calculations. Commissioners emphasized that "acre" should be defined as the legal unit of 43,560 square feet, not shorthand measures sometimes used by developers (for example, a "builder's acre" of 40,000 square feet). The commission also discussed and agreed that a "developable acre" (sometimes called net developable acre) should exclude unbuildable areas such as wetlands, steep slopes, roads, flood drains, sensitive areas, contamination, public parks and stormwater facilities so staff can consistently determine allowable density.

Commissioners asked staff to ensure the public-facing language explains why certain areas are excluded and how that affects lot counts and density. There were no members of the public who spoke on the code amendment during the hearing.

A motion to forward the amendment to the City Council for consideration carried by voice vote.

Why it matters: The amendment clarifies how the city will measure land for development density and will affect how future development proposals compute lot yield and compliance with zoning; it aims to reduce developer and staff confusion and speed processing of applications.