HomeMy WebLinkAbout01202026 Planning & Zoning Work Session NotesWORK SESSION NOTES
PLANNING & ZONING
Called by: Clare Sullivan
Purpose:
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Date: 1/20/2026
Present:
Daniel Meuninck
Courtney Bringhurst
Jamie Crocker
Commission Members Present:
Brenan Hornseth
Nathaniel Charbonneau
Venessa Verhey
Rhonda Hubbard
June Pemberton
Andrew Wilder
Clare Sullivan
Meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
Planning & Zoning Work Session Summary
Mobile Health Unit — Proposed Zoning Code Amendment
Staff introduced a proposed new land use definition for a "Mobile Health Unit" in response to a request
from the Seward Community Health Center. The intent is to accommodate lower -intensity mobile health
services, such as routine checkups and preventive care provided from a van, which are not adequately
addressed under the current zoning code. Existing regulations only contemplate higher -intensity mobile
medical units (e.g., mobile MRI or CT units).
Key elements of the proposed definition and standards include:
• Prohibition on operating within the public right-of-way.
• A maximum of 150 days of operation at a single site per calendar year.
• Requirements that the unit remain legally licensed, road -ready, and capable of mobility to preserve its
temporary nature.
From a zoning perspective, the proposed approach would allow Mobile Health Units outright in all
commercial and institutional zoning districts. Use within residential areas would be site- and context -
dependent, with examples such as short -duration home visits potentially allowed.
Discussion included practical considerations such as the size of the current unit (a 24-foot Winnebago),
storage limitations due to the lack of a heated facility, and the fact that the unit would not operate year-
round. Commissioners also discussed operational limits, potential exceptions for special events, and the
need for clearer guidance on use in residential areas and parks.
Marijuana Code Review (Title 15 and Title 8)
Staff provided a recap of the ongoing marijuana code review process, which began in 2024. The primary
objective is to update Title 15 to better align local regulations with state Alcohol and Marijuana Control
Office (AMCO) definitions where practical, while still addressing local policy priorities.
A key area of discussion was whether certain distinctions —such as indoor versus outdoor consumption
and drive -through operations —should be regulated through land use controls (Title 15) or through
business and operational regulations (Title 8). Staff recommended keeping the land use tables
straightforward and addressing operational details, including consumption endorsements and drive -
through standards, within Title 8 for greater clarity and consistency.
WORK SESSION NOTES PLANNING & ZONING
Commissioners and members of the public raised concerns related to public health, particularly
regarding high -potency THC products. Discussion topics included buffer distances, zoning districts,
caps on the number of establishments, and whether additional safeguards are appropriate. Suggestions
were made to revisit definitions, clarify how buffers are measured (e.g., lot line to lot line, inclusion of
bike paths), and to explore the possibility and implications of a municipal opt -out.
It was noted that the City Council is the ultimate decision -making body on these policy questions, and
that staff recommendations should be clearly documented for the upcoming joint work session with the
Council.
Commissioner Training and Procedural Overview
Staff provided commissioner training focused on procedural rules and best practices. Topics included
motions and amendments, consent agenda management, conflicts of interest, and the quasi-judicial
decision -making process.
A mock hearing was conducted to give commissioners hands-on practice with making and seconding
motions, proposing amendments, engaging in debate, managing public comment, handling appeals,
postponements, and reconsideration motions.
Best practices were discussed for developing clear findings, documenting counter -findings, and properly
structuring amendments and conditional votes. The importance of clear procedure, disclosure of
conflicts, and collaborative decision -making was emphasized throughout the training.
General Notes and Next Steps
Overall discussion emphasized the importance of aligning local definitions and regulations with state
frameworks while tailoring requirements to Seward's specific community needs and goals. The process
remains open and iterative, incorporating input from the public, commissioners, staff, and legal counsel.
Preparation for the upcoming joint work session with the City Council will include compiling proposed
Title 8 changes, pending definitions, and key discussion items for policy direction.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:56