Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2023 08 18

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes July 31, 2023 Page 3 of 7 making a full application. He explained that applicants could invest significant time and money in a project before they are ever given any indication as to whether or not City Council would be supportive of a proposal. He noted that developers and applicants like to have a clear process and clear expectations. Director Zuccaro gave an overview of the draft ordinance that has been posted online and made available to the public. The proposed ordinance will be discussed at the August Planning Commission hearing. He noted that staff looked at several other communities that currently offer a similar process. Councilmember Most asked whether this process would allow Councilmembers to have one-on-one conversations on projects. Director Zuccaro responded that the Concept Plan discussion would take place at a public hearing. Councilmember Most asked if the Concept Plan could prevent certain processes from coming to City Council. Director Zuccaro responded that this could be a possibility and noted that any future changes to the Comprehensive Plan would have an impact on this process. Mayor Pro Tern Fahey asked whether this process could help with proposals for affordable housing. Director Zuccaro responded that it could certainly help, but stated that there will also be opportunities for public comment. He advised that both public comments and Council discussion will be based on the limited information that the applicant includes with its proposal. Councilmember Most asked how long the process might take. Director Zuccaro responded that it would likely be one month to two months from the time of submittal. Mayor Pro Tern Fahey asked whether the intention of the Concept Plan is to provide feedback from City Council before going to Planning Commission. Director Zuccaro confirmed that while some land use processes do require a hearing before the Planning Commission, the Concept Plan would only require a hearing before City Council. He noted that the meeting minutes would be the only record of feedback, so the feedback may be open to interpretation. Public Comment from Clif Harald: Mr. Harald commented that he was very familiar with the City of Boulder's Concept Plan and noted that the proposed ordinance helps reduce risk for both developers and businesses. He continued by noting that Boulder's process goes to Planning Board rather than City Council. He concluded by mentioning Boulder's pre -application process and wondering whether Louisville might want to consider something similar to that. Mayor Pro Tern Fahey responded that in addition to businesses, residents will likely benefit from the accelerated review process. Agenda Packet P. 4