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• Skate Park Phase 11 <br /> • Traffic calming implementation <br /> Director Leininger presented on the Department's 2023 scheduled major projects and initiatives, <br /> some of which include: <br /> • Re-design of Merl Bunts Park <br /> • Comprehensive update of Zoning Code <br /> • HOME rehabs for affordable housing <br /> • Gap assistance funding for lead abatement <br /> • Subsidize portions of sidewalk replacement program <br /> Director Leininger explained that the increase in the department budget is attributable to the <br /> department's planned increase in staff and accompanying fringe benefits. <br /> Council and Director Leininger discussed the planned Zoning Code re-write in further detail. <br /> Director Leininger explained the goals of the revision and the importance of it. He stated that the <br /> city will use a consultant and that$200,000 from the economic development line item will be set <br /> aside for this purpose. The department hopes to enter into the contract in 2023 and the project <br /> will last 18-24 months. Director Leininger spoke of his previous professional experiences <br /> working on a Code re-write and mentioned that the process would entail public input and <br /> collaboration between staff and the consultant. In response to questions, Director Leininger <br /> explained that zoning codes can be more open-ended and flexible, or more prescriptive. He <br /> argued that our current zoning code allows for flexibility, but is not prescriptive enough, so that <br /> residents coming before boards and commissions do not always get predictable results. <br /> Councilmember Baker expressed interest in Council representation in this discussion when the <br /> time comes. <br /> President Litten expressed support for the Planning Department's proposed increase in staff,noting <br /> the role of the Planning Department in bringing the downtown development project to fruition. He <br /> asked if the Planning Department needed even more staff than budgeted. <br /> Director Leininger replied that with the planned increase that staffing is appropriate for the <br /> current workload. He also noted that space constraints prevent the department from growing <br /> further. Mayor George added that she wanted to fully support the Planning Department at this <br /> time, given the high volume of important projects they are leading and co-leading. Director <br /> Leininger further remarked that he is working with Human Resourced to post the vacant <br /> positions now and will fill them as soon as possible. <br /> In response to a question, Director Leininger explained that the professional services line item <br /> includes a contract with Project Management Consultants as well as other small, contracts not <br /> related to the hospital site. <br /> In response to a question, Director Leininger explained the timeline and plan for the scheduled <br /> Niagara Park improvements, which will involve a public input process. <br /> Director Leininger reviewed the various projects budgeted within the economic development line <br /> item, including projects carried forward from 2022 and new projects to be initiated in 2023. <br /> 8 <br />