The city of Cortez land-use code – nearly two decades old – is expected to receive a $200,000 makeover starting next year.
Adopted in 1996, the current municipal land-use code and zoning map is outdated, said city planning and building director Kirsten Sackett. She said the document has failed to provide the proper guidance and tools necessary to address subdivision and development requests.
“The development of a new land-use code has long been a desire of the planning and building department,” said Sackett. “The right time has finally arrived.”
Over the years, amendments have been made to the code in an effort to stay current with changing trends and needs, but in some instances, Sackett said the hodgepodge of guidelines conflicts with itself.
The new land-use code will include concepts from the city’s 2008 comprehensive plan and its supplemental community action plan along with findings from the Heart & Soul planning project.
“All of these processes and documents will be utilized in framing a new land-use code that will reflect the values of our community,” said Sackett.
The proposed $200,000 line item in next year’s budget is funded via a $50,000 award from the Gates Family Foundation, a $100,000 grant from the Department of Local Affairs and $50,000 from city coffers.
“Staff envisions that it will be at least two years before a new code is adopted,” said Sackett.
Soliciting bids from land-use consulting firms is the first step of the process, followed by numerous community meetings. Developers and other citizens will be encouraged to participate.
A draft code will subsequently be presented for public comment before final approval.
Sackett said an upcoming website will help to keep the public informed of the process.