This is a zone change that will amend Section 27-1502 of the Billings, Montana City Code (BMCC) to align the local zone change procedures with new state law amendments passed in 2009 and 2011. In 2009, the Montana Legislature approved HB 486, to amend state law to clarify the criteria for zone changes. In 2011, the Montana Legislature approved HB 181, to amend state law to allow zone change protests by condominium or townhome owners. Both of the changes require amendments to local zoning codes. The City Zoning Commission initiated this amendment on February 7, 2012. The Zoning Commission held a public hearing on April 3, 2012, and is forwarding a recommendation of approval on a 3-0 vote. The City Council conducted a public hearing on April 23, 2012, and approved the zone change on 1st reading.

The City Council may:
1. Approve the zone change
2. Deny the zone change
3. Allow withdrawal of the zone change
4. Delay action for up to thirty (30) days

There should be no financial impact from the proposed amendment.

The Zoning Commission is forwarding a recommendation of approval for Zone Change #892 on a 3-0 vote.