This is a zone change request from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) and Residential Multi-Family-Restricted (RMF-R) to Community Commercial on a 4.189- acre parcel described as Lots 1 through 5 of Brittain Acres Subdivision, located on the northeast corner of the intersection of Hilltop Road and Bench Boulevard. The property is owned by Big Sky Floral Supply (Gainan’s) and Chuck and Mick Gainan are the agents. The owners conducted a pre-application neighborhood meeting on June 20, 2012.  The Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing on August 7, 2012, and is forwarding a recommendation of approval on a 3-0 vote. The Council conducted a public hearing on August 27, 2012, and approved the zone change on 1st reading.

State law at MCA 76-2-304 requires that all zone changes be reviewed in accordance with 10 criteria. Using the 10 criteria to determine the appropriateness of the zone change request, the City Council may:
1. Approve the zone change request
2. Deny the zone change request
3. Allow withdrawal of the application
4. Delay action for up to thirty (30) days

There should be no immediate financial impact to the city from the zone change. Service fees for the proposed zoning will increase in the next tax year. When development occurs, the taxable market value of the property will increase.

The Zoning Commission is forwarding a recommendation of approval on a 3-0 vote.