AGENDA DATE: 12/2/2015
TITLE:
Title
Resolution of Intent to amend Drive-through window regulations
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Resolution to consider amendment of the Zoning Ordinance to allow Drive-through windows as a by-right use subject to performance standards.
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Mr. Fritz, Mr. Kamptner
PRESENTER (S): Bill Fritz
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Thomas C. Foley
BACKGROUND: The County requires a special use permit for drive-through windows in the commercial districts. The Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors have expressed interest in developing performance standards that would permit drive-through windows as a by-right use in commercial districts.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 3: Development Areas: Attract quality employment, commercial, and high density residential uses into development areas by providing services and infrastructure that encourage redevelopment and private investment while protecting the quality of neighborhoods.
DISCUSSION: Currently the Zoning Ordinance has limited design standards for drive-through windows. During the review of a recent application for multiple drive-through windows at a shopping center currently under development, staff developed performance standards, which the Board imposed as conditions of approval. This approach provides flexibility for the shopping center developers in attracting new businesses that use drive-through windows and flexibility to relocate or replace businesses in the future while preserving safe pedestrian and vehicular traffic flow and addressing potential conflicts with other uses, particularly nearby residential uses and protecting the visual quality of entrance corridors. This performance standard approach will allow for easier application of the Zoning Ordinance by developers and improve the quality of urban development.
BUDGET IMPACT: In the last three years approximately 8% of all special use permit applications have been for drive-through windows. The fee received for these applications covers approximately 10% of the actual review cost. Applying administrative standards for drive-through applications is a significantly less resource intensive process. Amending the ordinance to allow for administrative review of drive-through windows will have a positive budget impact.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends adoption of the attached resolution of intent.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A - Resolution of intent