DATE: June 1, 2020
TO: Council Economic Development Committee
FROM: Development Services Director
SUBJECT
Title
Informational Report Addressing Extended Timeframes to Reestablish Nonconforming Uses Due to COVID-19 Crisis
End
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
That the CEDC receives this informational item and provides feedback on the proposed criteria to administratively extend the timeframes for reestablishment of nonconforming uses during the COVID-19 crisis.
End
SUMMARY
Per the Nonconforming Ordinance, a nonconforming use may be re-established within six months of the prior use vacating a commercial or industrial building without approval of discretionary permits provided that the nonconforming use is similar to or less intensive than the one that vacated the space and that the nonconforming use will not adversely affect or be materially detrimental to adjoining properties.
Staff received a request to extend the timeframe to reestablish a nonconforming use due to the COVID-19 crisis. This staff report provides a process to administratively allow a six-month extension beyond that provided by the Nonconforming Ordinance to give property owners additional time to re-tenant buildings with the same use without having to go through a lengthy planning process. The unprecedented economic slowdown related to the COVID-19 pandemic and limited opportunities to show properties and relocate businesses is unusual and warrants flexibility from the standards to address the impact of the crisis.
The City Council asked that the CEDC review this item and provide further direction to staff.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report
Attachment II PS Business Parks Letter 4.13.20
Attachment III Emergency Resolution 20-036