Aaron Wilson, planning manager with Public Works and Mobility, provided some answers to questions asked previously. He went over the ADA parking requirements and general parking requirements in the city. He confirmed the city does not have a citywide parking audit. He also went over the parking radius near transit stops and accessibility. Mr. Wilson also gave examples of the mixed barriers they receive when they do project reviews for improvements.
The committee began asking questions about ADA requirements and accessibility. Daniel Carlino, went over the amendments made to the referral and why these modifications were made. He felt this address all three items in the city's strategic plan; Climate, Equity and Housing. Eran Pehan, Director of the Community Planning, Development and Innovation department, explained that staffs position hasn't changed and would seek to continue the process as laid out. Time limitations was expressed as a big factor for both staff and the consultants. The goal is to have some deliverables by summer of 2023 and would include recommendations on what the best path forward should be. A lot of the discussion circled around the project priorities and the timeline of implementation of the code reform project. Ms. Pehan gave some background on the company that was hired as the consultant for the project. Concerns were expressed about use of times and where the priorities are for the project and how the proposed item could alter the future outcome of the code reform project. There was a mix of interpretations of the request being made and how this effects all those involved with the project. Some of the committee members sough clarification regarding exactly what the proposed motion on the referral was seeking. Ms. Pehan reiterated her desire to let the consultants do what they have been hired to do.
The committee discussed a proposed motion and the process for the proposal. There was concern around the proposed language on the referral and concern over the intended path of the motion moved onto the floor.
Public Comment:
Chris Chitty, a Missoula resident and infill developer, expressed optimism, excitement in the code reform project but has concerns over the project and lack of staff resources. He would like to see more room for things to happen and embrace it to allow people to be as creative and innovated as possible. He would like to ensure council gives staff and the consultant team very clear directions that would make their jobs easier.
Another public commenter was more prepared to share support for the proposed motion listed on the referral.
The committee held additional questions and comments regarding the motion on the floor. There was a mix of opposition and support of the motion on the floor along with understanding of what councils interpretation of the motion on the floor. Due to time limitation, the item was tabled and will be held over in a future Land Use and Planning Committee meeting.