HomeMy WebLinkAbout11182025 Planning & Zoning Work Session NotesWORK SESSION NOTES
PLANNING & ZONING
Called by: Carol Grisswold
Time: 6:OOp.m.
Date: 11 / 18/2025
Purpose: Discuss parking resolutions
Present:
Daniel Meuninck
Courtney Bringhurst
Jamie Crocker
Commission Members Present:
Venessa Verhey
June Pemberton
Clare Sullivan
Brenan Hornseth
Nathaniel Charbonneau
Carol Griswold
Meeting was called to order at 6:OOp.m.
Meeting Purpose:
• Work session to discuss potential reforms to the City's off-street parking minimums.
• Two resolutions under consideration: one reducing some minimums and one eliminating minimums
entirely.
Staff and Commission Discussion Highlights:
• Reviewed history and rationale of the parking code.
• Clarified ADA parking requirements: ADA spaces are required only if parking is provided.
• Identified need for City Council direction on larger policy questions, including potential paid parking.
• Emphasized coordination across departments and agencies for long-term management.
Resolution Summaries:
Original Resolution:
• Retains minimum parking requirements but reduces them for specific uses, including hotels and multi-
family housing.
Substitute Resolution:
WORK SESSION NOTES PLANNING & ZONING
• Eliminates all minimum parking requirements citywide.
• Allows developers and property owners to determine their own parking needs based on market
demand.
Key Arguments Presented:
Arguments Supporting Elimination of Minimums
• Reduces development and housing costs.
• Allows more flexibility for development.
• Aligns with national best practices and trends.
• Reduces unnecessary land use and infrastructure expenses.
Arguments Opposing Elimination of Minimums:
• Potential loss of accessibility and inclusivity.
• Risk of monetized parking or increased pressure on public spaces.
• Seasonal congestion concerns.
• No guarantee of ADA spaces or affordability.
• Possible cost shifting to surrounding neighborhoods.
Public Comment Themes:
• Supporters emphasized developer flexibility and national trends.
• Opponents raised concerns about fairness, accessibility, safety, and congestion.
• Many highlighted needs of disabled, elderly, and non -driving residents.
• Suggestions included better transit, walkability, and permit system improvements.
Additional Themes and Proposed Solutions:
• Improve sidewalk maintenance year-round.
WORK SESSION NOTES PLANNING & ZONING
• Explore shared parking, tiered permits, and other creative tools.
• Develop a comprehensive transportation strategy.
Action Items and Next Steps:
• Commission will gather additional input and identify issues requiring City Council direction.
• Staff will provide ADA guidance and coordinate with the State DOT for any future paid parking
expansion.
• Next meeting will continue discussion and work toward a vote.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:24 p.m.