Minutes - Council Work Session - 05/11/2022 - Joint WS

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Councilmember Musgrove asked if there should be discussion on awnings and front porches. She stated that she likes the look as it lends to the character but would like to hear comments from planning and developers. Planning Commission Chair Bauer stated that the Commission recently reviewed a proposal that included something other than porches. He asked why porches were originally required and whether that is something they want to hold onto. Acting Mayor Riley asked if that review should start with the Planning Commission and could then move forward from there. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood provided details on the intention of requiring front porches as it creates a more walkable area and sense of community. He believed that the porches add value to the homes and neighborhood and provide the opportunity for residents to interact. Planning Commissioner Gengler stated that one of the plans they reviewed had more of a patio/social area out front that would provide the intention, but it was not truly a porch. EDA Chairperson Olson asked if the intention is function or look. Senior Planner Anderson displayed a proposal of something the developer was looking to bring to The COR that did not necessarily meet the criteria of a front porch. He noted that front porches are not high on the wish list of buyers in the current marketplace. Councilmember Woestehoff commented that he struggled with the fact that the porch would not provide the desired intention as he would access his home from the garage and his kids would play in the driveway, therefore a community space would make more sense in the interior. He stated that while he understands the essence of the standards and the intent, the point of community is along the interior streets rather than what the City considers to be the front. Councilmember Musgrove commented that some of the properties owned by the elderly have flat entrances and therefore functionally it may be better to have a slab in the front with more community space on the interior of the site. Planning Commissioner Walker stated that the City sometimes tries to nitpick on how things will be done but ultimately the developers are investing to build these products and are aware of what will sell. He did not believe that porches is something the City should require. Acting Mayor Riley suggested that the Planning Commission develop a policy that could be reviewed by the City Council. Councilmember Howell liked the idea of suggesting but not requiring. Economic Development Manager Sullivan stated that it is nice from time to time to have a breakup in the facade and not have the entire community look the same. City Council Joint Work Session/May 11, 2022 Page 10 of 16