City Council Minutes 1999 03 16 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mayer stated that the Floor Area Ratio should be a precursor to the TDR (Transferable Development Rights) program, and he was uncertain what the status of that program is. He felt that if the TDR program could not be developed in a reasonable amount of time, this might provide conflict in how downtown develops. He also suggested that Planning Commission consider whether the Floor Area Ratio on the west side of the tracks should also apply to the east side of the tracks. Sisk agreed with Keany's previous suggestion that Council consider the maximum square footage that will be allowed in the district. Howard requested that Council receive an update at the next Council meeting on the status of the TDR program. Davidson called for further Council discussion prior to a vote. NONE All in favor. Paul Wood, Planning Director, explained that the Planning Commission has already received information on the ordinances. Staff is preparing to revise the Floor Area Ratio Ordinance with the Planning Commission. He stated that the Planning Commission would be meeting on Thursday, which does not allow staff sufficient time to separate the design guidelines and the floor area ratio from the framework plan. Keany stated that he believes the real question is whether or not the map is modified. He felt that it is at Council's discretion when reviewing the Ordinance to modify the map to exclude those areas that Council decides are inappropriate to be included. He would like to hear Planning Commission's comments, however, he did not believe it was necessary to redraft the document. Council is asking to exclude the east side of the tracks from the document at this time and develop a different scenario for that side. Wood replied that if the east side is excluded, the floor area ratio of 0.52 which was derived from the traffic study would not be an accurate reflection. Howard asked Wood for clarification that if Council excludes the east side of the tracks, this would effectively increase the density in the core area. Wood replied, yes, based upon the transportation study. If the trips to the east side were removed, the impacts for Pine and Front Streets will possibly be skewed. Mayer stated that he believes that in the short future, an integrated plan for the east side of the tracks should be developed. This would eliminate the small sections of disparately zoned areas that don't make much sense in terms of a comprehensive plan for that area. He would like Council to be prepared for any development that might come forward from the east side. 9