Bill Type and Number: Ordinance 2003-627

Sponsor: Council President Holland, and Council Members Brown, Carlucci, Jenkins and Overton:

Date of Introduction: May 13, 2003

Committee(s) of Reference: LUZ

Date of Analysis: May 16, 2003

Type of Action: Ordinance Code Amendment

Bill Summary: This legislation concerns the Downtown Overlay Zone. The Downtown Master Plan, approved pursuant to Ordinance 200-321-E, is amended by this legislation to expand the Riverfront and LaVilla Districts and insert a revised Street Hierarchy Map. The bill amends the Zoning Code; repealing the existing Subpart H, Part 3, Chapter 656, ORDINANCE CODE, and creating a new Subpart H, Part 3, Chapter 656, ORDINANCE CODE (Downtown Overlay Zone and Downtown District Regulations); establishing district boundaries; adopting a Downtown Zoning Overlay; establishing zoning regulations for the downtown district; establishing the Downtown Design Review Committee.

Background Information: This legislation creates a new Downtown Overlay Zone prescribing new zoning requirements for properties in the downtown area, expanding allowable uses in the zoning categories for downtown properties. The new Subpart H, Part 3 Chapter addresses issues such a entrances, river views and the height of buildings and structures, rooftop design, off-street parking overlay. A Downtown Design Review Committee is established within the Downtown Development Authority to review and approve development within the Downtown Overlay Zone. This body shall consist of nine voting members, seven appointed by the Mayor and two ex officio members. The Council confirms the Mayor’s appointees and the Committee members will serve staggered terms.

Policy Impact Area: Downtown Development/Zoning

Fiscal Impact: Undetermined

Analyst: Jackson