BACKGROUND: The Plan Commission and staff recommend amendments to the Zoning Ordinance for creation of a new zoning classification, Special Planned Development District (SPD), in with certain procedures and development parameters. The intent was to entice and accommodate quality, large scale, multi-phased, integrated campus-like developments such as the Community Care Campus and educational institutions, even with potential of subsequent amendments, without compromising public welfare and safety. The SPD would have to complement the goals and objectives of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Further, the SPD may make use of flexible and creative site planning and land development approaches on larger and/or unique sites, to promote development of single or compatible mixed land uses, and allow development in phases to adjust to changing demands and needs of the community.
This revision is a direct attempt to make the review and amendment process associated with large multi-year projects easier and more efficient.