§ 105-1. Background.

The city recognizes that certain established areas of the city are inherently unique relative to their establishment and physical characteristics; specifically, the following is generally known, understood, and considered in the development of this chapter:

(1)

Development and redevelopment within established areas of the city occur over time based on ever-evolving standards.

(2)

Growth and redevelopment efforts in established areas are organic and occur in a seemingly random pattern based on influences such as availability, adjacent uses, the market, infrastructure, and natural site amenities.

(3)

The diversity of established development types, character, and size contribute to the quality, flavor and essence of the city.

(4)

The quality, flavor and essence of the city play an integral role in property values, as well as the identity, quality of life, and welfare of its citizens.

(5)

The quality, flavor and essence are not restricted to boundaries and could be influenced by adjacent communities, as well as regional or national relative design trends.

(6)

The essence of the city is ever evolving and is made up of a variety of elements.

(7)

Elements include the collective semblance of a network of buildings, roads, open spaces, landscaping, cultural elements, landmarks and other tangible items.

(8)

Over time, the city has regulated certain tangible items to protect the public health, safety and welfare.

(9)

Standard regulations in the form of dimensional zoning or municipal codes, although providing basic protections, do not comprehensively reflect the diversity of unique established areas.

(10)

Standard regulations could unnecessarily influence development and redevelopment efforts creating monolithic single dimensional products that could negatively influence the previously established areas of the city.

(11)

There is a need for aesthetically oriented requirements that allow for flexibility, promote design creativity, and enhance the established goals of the community that ultimately affect the quality, flavor and essence of the community.

(12)

Within certain unique and established areas, development efforts have a potential to impact property values, city identity, and the quality of life of its residents.

(13)

An ordinance that provides guidelines, objectives, and standards for the development and redevelopment of certain unique established areas of the city is appropriate.

(Code 1985, § 161.01; Ord. No. 4469, 12-20-1999)