Agenda - Planning Commission - 12/04/2003

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Case REVIEW ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS FOR MEDIUM- AND HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS By: Amy Geisler, Associate Planner Background: The City Council discussed architectural standards for multifamily development at its July 291' 2003 work session. Assistant Community Director Trudgeon informed the Council that the Housing Committee would be taking up architectural standards with the hope of making a recommendation to Council in the near future. The Housing Committee has been reviewing and modifying draft standards for several months, and has voted to forward the draft to the EDA and Planning Commission for their consideration. The following items are enclosed for your information: a) Summary of architectural standards used by surrounding communities b) Draft re-write of R-2 and R-3 Residential Zoning Districts Notification: Staff is bringing the draft language to the Planning Commission for discussion only at this point. A formal public hearing on the proposed standards will be held by the Planning Commission at a later date. Observations: As the City continues to grow, the quality of new residential development will play an important role. in the durability and diversity of the City's housing stock. The quality of the City's housing stock has implications for property values and the desirability of the area to prospective residents and businesses. Staff has been researching architectural standards and their implementation and offers the following observations: Location of standards. Architectural standards can reside in City Code, the Comprehensive Plan, or both. Method of implementation. Architectural standards are typically implemented one of two ways: through specific standards spelled out in City Code (% brick required per building face, certain types of siding prohibited, etc) or through a formalized Design Review process. In the first option, City staff would evaluate development plans for compliance with specific architectural requirements, established in City Code. In the second option, an' appointed Review Board would review plans according to less specific requirements. Such a board typically contains members with specific architectural expertise. Cities may also choose to pursue a combination approach. The Housing Committee has recommended a Code-based approach rather than a Design Review Board. Implications of architectural standards. Architectural standards may drive up the cost of housing - to builders and ultimately to consumers. Builders are less able to use standardized, corporate designs, and materials may have a higher initial cost. On the other hand, architectural standards h~.ve the 45