Consent 1.C.
Regular City Council Meeting
- Meeting Date:
- 02/28/2011
- TITLE
- Farr Associates Professional Service Contract for EBURD Form-based Code Development
- PRESENTED BY:
- Candi Beaudry
- Department:
- Planning & Community Services
Presentation:
PROBLEM/ISSUE STATEMENT
The 2007 East Billings Urban Renewal District (EBURD) Master Plan recommended a non-conventional type of zoning be developed and applied to the EBURD to help revitalize the district and incentivize development. Form-based zoning is a fairly recent method of regulating land uses that focus more on how the properties look and function than on what specific uses are allowed. Not only does it address the building elements, such as height, mass, and architectural features, it also combines how the building addresses the adjoining public space or right-of-way. The result is an attractive, functional design that allows existing uses to coexist with redeveloped properties in a conforming and unified manner. If ultimately approved by the City Council, Billings will be the first community in the state to adopt form-based code.
A Request for Proposals was advertised in November, 2010 and a selection committee consisting of Planning staff, a representative from Big Sky Economic Development Authority (BSEDA) and two representatives from the Billings Industrial Revitalization District (BIRD) reviewed eleven proposals. The selection committee recommends Farr Associates of Chicago because of their approach, depth of experience in form-based code development and consideration of implementation and enforcement. Farr Associates will team with a local firm, Sanderson Stewart, to provide information on infrastructure and serve as a local liaison. The contracted amount is $49,000 and is being paid for through tax increment financing funds. The Planning Division will administer the contract on behalf of the City.
A Request for Proposals was advertised in November, 2010 and a selection committee consisting of Planning staff, a representative from Big Sky Economic Development Authority (BSEDA) and two representatives from the Billings Industrial Revitalization District (BIRD) reviewed eleven proposals. The selection committee recommends Farr Associates of Chicago because of their approach, depth of experience in form-based code development and consideration of implementation and enforcement. Farr Associates will team with a local firm, Sanderson Stewart, to provide information on infrastructure and serve as a local liaison. The contracted amount is $49,000 and is being paid for through tax increment financing funds. The Planning Division will administer the contract on behalf of the City.
ALTERNATIVES ANALYZED
The City Council may approve or not approve the contract with Farr Associates to develop a form-based code for the East Billings Urban Renewal District.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Tax increment funds are being used to fund this project. There is approximately $213,355 remaining in the EBURD account, not including second half taxes. Council approved the expenditure of $49,000 for this project which would leave approximately $157,700 plus second half taxes, for the remainder of FY11.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council approve the $49,000 professional services contract with Farr Associates to develop a form-based code for the East Billings Urban Renewal District.