Laserfiche WebLink
1 4 <br />to align the code with future development goals. The city had previously rewritten parts of the <br />zoning code, but there was a recognition that further adjustments, particularly related to transit - <br />oriented development (TOD) and mixed-use zoning, were needed. <br />The planning and design commission was informed that they could initiate amendments to the <br />zoning code, but it had typically been the administration or city council that took the lead. <br />Several commissioners expressed the belief that a complete overhaul of the zoning code was <br />necessary, as it was outdated and inconsistent in several areas. One commissioner emphasized <br />that zoning should be a top priority in the comprehensive plan. <br />It was suggested that Ms. Falcone provide her perspective on which parts of the zoning code <br />should be addressed first, taking into consideration both the recommendations in the plan and the <br />potential investment of city finds required for such a rewrite. <br />The discussion focused on updating the city's zoning code, with particular emphasis on housing, <br />mixed-use development, and transit -oriented development (TOD). Commissioners highlighted <br />the need to address multifamily housing codes, which were outdated and complex, and identified <br />challenges related to variances. The importance of aligning zoning with the Lorain Road corridor <br />plan and refining parking requirements was also raised. A zoning audit was suggested to review <br />areas causing issues, including multifamily residential zoning, mixed-use, and parking codes. <br />The planning and design commission discussed how to record and prioritize recommendations <br />from the comprehensive plan. The plan itself includes an implementation matrix, which outlines <br />next steps and priorities. Zoning audits and updates were emphasized, especially for multifamily <br />codes, parking requirements, and transit -oriented development (TOD). Commissioners were <br />encouraged to review the matrix and identify areas for zoning changes, with particular focus on <br />land use and related goals. The zoning audit would address existing issues while aligning with <br />the broader goals set in the comprehensive plan. <br />The planning and design commission discussed the process for initiating a zoning audit, which <br />could be recommended by the commission and carried out by them. The commission could also <br />request work sessions on specific topics, like parking minimums or accessory dwelling units. <br />Historically, the commission had created subcommittees to tackle specific zoning issues, <br />allowing them to address changes gradually. <br />A question was raised about whether the commission could select specific items from the <br />comprehensive plan to recommend to council. It was clarified that the plan should be adopted as <br />a whole, and once adopted, the commission could work through the implementation chapter to <br />prioritize and recommend specific changes. <br />The consultants suggest that beautification efforts, such as public art, streetscape design <br />standards, and improved wayfinding, could be low -hanging fruit for North Olmsted. Specifically, <br />the Lorain Road corridor plan already includes ideas for beautifying the area with uniform <br />streetscapes and murals to create a more appealing atmosphere. These smaller, short-term <br />improvements could be prioritized first. While larger projects, like redeveloping the mall, are <br />more complex, they could still become a priority if political support and funding align. <br />2 <br />