On Monday, September 16, the City Council held a public hearing on the Planning Commission’s recommendation for the Town Center Subarea Plan, 2018 Comprehensive Plan Amendments, and Development Regulations. Seven people testified in person and others submitted written testimony.
Feedback was received from residents regarding Council’s September 12 discussion to change the recommended zoning on two areas proposed for TC-1 (6-12 stories) to TC-2 (4-8 stories). Some residents who live in those zones said their neighbors wanted the zoning to remain at TC-1 and other property owners testified that the City Council should respect the proposal that was fully vetted by the community over a nearly two-year process.
The Town Center process has included eight meetings before the City Council on the proposed updated plan and public input was encouraged. The public process began in April of 2018 with the Economic Vitality and Town Center Task Force hosting fourteen public meetings (includes two open houses and economic opportunities panel discussion) and Planning Commission hosting twelve meetings (includes one public hearing prior to City Council review and discussion).
Following public testimony, the public hearing was closed and the City Council held a discussion and debated the pros and cons of making any changes. Ultimately, the City Council provided direction to prepare the documents with the original designations of TC-1 as recommended by the Task Force and Planning Commission.
September is a five-Monday month so there is no regular meeting scheduled next week. Therefore, approval of the Town Center Subarea Plan and related documents is scheduled for a special meeting on Thursday, September 26 at 7:00 p.m. at the Interim City Council Chambers, 6100 219th Street SW, Suite 220. Visit www.cityofmlt.com/469 for City Council meeting agendas, materials, and audio.
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