14.23.035 Consideration Of Design And Modifications To Standards.
Consideration for approval and conditioning or design review shall be based on and interpreted in light of the conformance of the development with the intent and requirements of Ordinance 1124, and the Comprehensive Land Use Plan goals and policies.
These standards and requirements are normally to be considered the minimum necessary design criteria to accomplish development objectives of the city. The city may require more stringent standards, or less demanding standards, based upon the specific and unique nature of the site and the surrounding areas. Such decision shall be at the sole discretion of the city, in determining standards necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the city and to further the purposes and intent of Ordinance 1124 and the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan. Any modification of the requirements of Ordinance 1124 shall be subject to the following considerations:
A. The design and improvement of the proposal shall be in harmony with the purpose and intent of Ordinance 1124 and the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.
B. The design and improvement of the proposal shall generally enhance the site plan, or in any case not have an adverse impact on its physical, visual, or spatial characteristics.
C. The design and improvement of the proposal shall generally enhance the streetscape and neighborhood, or in any case not have an adverse impact on the streetscape and neighborhoods.
D. The modification shall not result in configurations of the site or street systems which shall be impractical or detract from the appearance or functionality of the design.
E. Design review principles and other methods, prepared by a certified design professional, shall be used to ensure compliance with the intent of Ordinance 1124.
F. The proponent shall demonstrate that the proposed modification will allow for equal or better results and represents the minimum modification necessary.
G. The modifications shall not detract from the ability of pedestrians to walk in or through the proposal and their access to public transportation.
If the city determines that the applicant has met these standards, it may grant a modification of the requirements of Ordinance 1124 as part of the normal review process. In granting modifications, the city may impose such conditions as will, in its judgment, secure the objectives and purposes of Ordinance 1124. (Ord. 1539 §6, 2019; Ord. 1124 §2, 2000).