The City of Lowell Planning Commission wrapped up their Monday meeting in what felt like record time. It took just 15 minutes for the commission to hear public comments from one resident and then vote to set a public hearing on zoning amendments.
Commissioners Marty Chambers and Dave Cadwallader were absent, as was Chair Tony Ellis. As a result, Vice Chair Nicki Holst ran the meeting.
Support for Accessory Dwelling Units
During the public comments portion of the meeting, Margaret Cichoracki shared her concern that the city had yet to enact an ordinance allowing accessory dwelling units. The Gee Drive resident mentioned she had spoken to city staff last summer and attended a Planning Commission meeting last November. At that time, it seemed as though the city might be working quickly to pass an ADU ordinance.
“I feel like we’ve been waiting almost a year already,” Cichoracki said. “ADUs are important. I know a lot of people are waiting for this to process.”
Later, during their final remarks for the meeting, Commissioner John Barnett said he would be interested in looking more into an ADU ordinance. Other commissioners agreed.
Public Hearing for Zoning Amendments
For now, though, the Planning Commission is considering two different zoning amendments:
- Allowing properties that don’t conform with the current zoning ordinance to be rebuilt or expanded under certain circumstances
- Allowing greater density in planned unit developments
Both suggestions were discussed at length last month, and commissioners voted unanimously to set a public hearing on the amendments. That hearing will take place in April.
The meeting adjourned at 7:15pm, and the next regular meeting of the City of Lowell Planning Commission will take place on Monday, April 14, at 7pm in Lowell City Hall.
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