Explanation
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this ordinance is to amend various sections in Title 33 of the Columbus City Codes, pertaining to Council actions on zoning in the City and the Zone-In Initiative. The Zone In Initiative is based upon the work of the Departments of Development and Building & Zoning Services as well as the Zone In Advisory Committee. The Zone In Advisory Committee is a diverse group of neighborhood, civic and development representatives. The committee’s first meeting was hosted by Mayor Ginther in November 2022. They have met regularly since that time to provide input on the development of a comprehensive zoning code update that is responsive to community needs and furthers equitable opportunity for all Columbus residents.
In conjunction with the Departments of Development, Building & Zoning Services (BZS), and the City Attorney’s office, Council is proposing a set of amendments to Columbus City Codes Title 33 - Zoning Code. These amendments would introduce the concept of the Zone In Initiative to the Codes, as well as introduce references to the new Title 34 2024 Zoning Code, which is proposed under the Zone In process. Broadly, the amendments allow for Council to rezone properties in phases, by ordinance, to further the Zone In Initiative. They will also codify a public engagement process in which Council must solicit public feedback for any changes initiated under Zone-In, in order to transition from the current Title 33 Zoning Code to the new Title 34 2024 Zoning Code.
Most of the amendments concern Chapter 3310 (relating to amendments to the Zoning Map). The two main changes are: 1) the allowance for Council action on the Zone-In Initiative and how the current Zoning Code relates to the proposed Title 34 2024 Zoning Code, and 2) the public engagement process. Until the enactment of a new Title 34 2024 Zoning Code, we are governed by the current Title 33 Zoning Code, which makes no consideration for the broad changes of zo...
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