Laserfiche WebLink
<br />Planning Manger Larson presented a proposed code amendment for the Serenity at Rivers Edge <br />area, explaining that the current R1 zoning requires homes to be set within a defined front-yard <br />setback, which would push certain riverfront homes farther from the water. He noted the proposed <br />house placements closer to the river are reasonable, but would otherwise require variances, which <br />staff did not support. Instead, staff recommended amending the code to allow an exception for <br />riparian lots in specific overlay districts, consistent with existing allowances for accessory <br />structures while maintaining the required setbacks from the river. He added that the Planning <br />Commission held a public hearing on March 26 and unanimously recommended approval, with <br />this being the first reading of the ordinance. <br /> <br />Councilmember Buscher asked whether there were additional historical reasons for the front yard <br />setback requirements beyond concerns about building too close to the river. <br /> <br />Planning Manager Larson explained the setback requirement was primarily intended to keep <br />homes aligned along the street, based on the assumption that houses would face the roadway, and <br />noted staff were supportive of the proposed change. <br /> <br />Councilmember Buscher asked whether there are concerns about ground disturbance when <br />building closer to the water. <br /> <br />Planning Manager Larson explained that the overlay districts already require setbacks of about <br />100 feet from the water, so ground disturbance near the river is not a concern under the proposed <br />change. <br /> <br />Acting Mayor Riley expressed support for the code amendment, stating it is a common-sense <br />approach and that standard setbacks do not fit well in this situation. <br /> <br />Councilmember Specht supported creating an exception rather than requiring variances and <br />thanked staff for their creativity, noting a preference for less regulation. <br /> <br />Motion by Councilmember Specht, seconded by Councilmember Stewart, to introduce Ordinance <br />#26-05, amending Chapter 106 of the City Code. <br /> <br />A roll call vote was performed: <br /> <br />Councilmember Buscher aye <br />Councilmember Riley aye <br />Councilmember Stewart aye <br />Councilmember Specht aye <br />Mayor Heineman aye <br /> <br />Motion carried. <br />8. MAYOR, COUNCIL, AND STAFF INPUT <br /> <br />8.01: Legislative Update <br />City Council /April 14, 2026 <br />Page 10 of 12 <br /> <br />