This zone change includes a map amendment and a text amendment for the East Billings urban Renewal District (EBURD). The amendment will add a new section to the Unified Zoning Regulations that specifies land uses, building types, signage allowances, landscaping requirements and location specific street improvements for new zoning districts in the EBURD. This zoning code is a hybrid between traditional zoning and form-based zoning. On July 3rd the City Zoning Commission voted to keep the public hearing open and delay action on Zone Change #901 for 30 days to August 7, 2012. At its August 7th meeting, the City Zoning Commission heard from property owners and other stakeholders, and voted to recommend to the City Council approval of the EBURD Code with the changes proposed by the property owners and city staff. The City Council conducted a public hearing on August 27, 2012, and approved the zone change on 1st reading.

The City Council may;
1) Adopt the EBURD Code as recommended by the City Zoning Commission
2) Not adopt the EBURD Code
3) Delay action on the EBURD Code for 30 days.

The adoption of this code will have no immediate financial impact on the City of Billings.  However, over time, the EBURD Code will be instrumental in increasing property values in the East Billings Urban Renewal District.

The Zoning Commission recommends approval of Zone Change #901 on a 3-0 vote.