AHP Zoning Changes Delayed Again

At its Oct. 18, 2010 meeting, the Ann Arbor city council again delayed making changes in the city’s zoning code for areas outside the downtown, across most of the city’s zoning classifications. The changes affect area, height and placement (AHP). The measure had been postponed from the council’s previous meeting as well, at the request of Marcia Higgins (Ward 4). At the Oct. 18 meeting, Higgins brought forth amendments that confined a height cap on buildings to areas adjacent to residential areas. After some deliberation on the merits of the amendments, Higgins withdrew them and the council elected to postpone the measure, which was being considered that night for its second and final reading. If the amendments are included, the AHP revisions will need to be approved at an additional first reading, and a second reading, which will include a public hearing.

Not included in the changes to AHP is the R4C (multi-family dwelling) zoning classification. The changes are intended to allow more compact use of land, preserve natural systems, accommodate new growth along transit corridors, and locate buildings to promote non-motorized access. Previous Chronicle coverage of the city planning commission’s deliberations on AHP changes: “AHP Zoning Revisions Go to City Council”

A more detailed report will follow: [link]