HomeMy WebLinkAboutP&Z Packet 10.18.18
Iowa City
Planning & Zoning Commission
Formal Meeting
Thursday, October 18, 2018
7:00 PM
Emma Harvat Hall – City Hall
Department of Neighborhood
and
Development Services
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Formal Meeting – 7:00 PM
Emma Harvat Hall
Iowa City City Hall
410 E. Washington Street
AGENDA:
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Public Discussion of Any Item Not on the Agenda
4. Rezoning Item:
Discussion of an application submitted by IC Housing Group, LLC for the rezoning of
approximately 4.34 acres of property located at 4643 Herbert Hoover Highway SE from
Interim Development Multi-Family Residential Zone (ID-RM) to Low Density Multi-
Family Residential Zone (RM-12) for approximately 2.55 acres and Medium Density
Multi-Family Residential Zone (RM-20) for approximately 1.79 acres. (REZ18-00020)
5. Fringe Area Rezoning Item:
Discussion of an application submitted by Claude and Adam Greiner for a rezoning
from County Agriculture (A) to County Single Family Residential (R) for approximately
11.34 acres of property located south of American Legion Road and west of Wapsie
Avenue SE. (CZ18-00002)
6. Zoning Code Amendment Item:
Discussion of Amendments to Title 14, Zoning of the Iowa City Code related to transfer
of development rights for historic properties. (ZCA18-00003)
7. Consideration of Meeting Minutes: September 20, 2018
8. Planning & Zoning Information
9. Adjournment
If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate in this meeting, please contact Anne Russett, Urban
Planning, at 319-356-5251 or anne-russett@iowa-city.org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time
to meet your access needs.
Upcoming Planning & Zoning Commission Meetings
Formal: November 1 / November 15 / December 6
Informal: Scheduled as needed.
STAFF REPORT
To: Planning and Zoning Commission Prepared by: Jesi Lile, Associate Planner & Anne
Russett, Senior Planner
Item: REZ18-00020 Date: October 18, 2018
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Applicant: IC Housing Group, LLC
366 South 10th Avenue, Waite Park, MN, 56387
(320)-202-3100
mscarr@sandcompanies.com
Contact: IC Housing Group, LLC
366 South 10th Avenue, Waite Park, MN, 56387
(320)-202-3100
mscarr@sandcompanies.com
Requested Action: Rezoning from Interim Development – Multi-
Family Residential (ID-RM) to Medium Density
Multi-Family Residential (RM-20) and Low
Density Multi-Family Residential Zone (RM-12)
Purpose: To allow the development of a 36-unit affordable
housing community and a multi-family or senior
housing community.
Location: 4643 Herbert Hoover Highway SE
Location Map:
Size: Total site: 7.90 acres
Rezoning to RM-12: 2.55 acres
Rezoning to RM-20: 1.79 acres
Remainder of site to remain Interim
Development-Single Family Residential (ID-RS)
zone.
Existing Land Use and Zoning: Single-family home, Interim Development –
Single Family Residential (ID-RS) and Interim
Development – Multi-Family Residential (ID-RM)
Surrounding Land Use and Zoning: North: Residential (County-R)
South: Multi-Family Residential (County-RMF);
Residential (County-R);
Commercial (County-C)
East: Residential (County-R)
West: Community Commercial (CC2);
Commercial Office (CO1);
Mixed Use (MU)
Comprehensive Plan: Residential, 2-3 dwelling units per acre
District Plan: Northeast District Plan; Open Space
Neighborhood Open Space District: Lower West Branch (NE3)
Public Meeting Notification: Property owners located within 300 feet of the
project site received notification of the Planning
and Zoning Commission public meeting
File Date: September 13, 2018
45 Day Limitation Period: October 23, 2018
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The applicant, IC Housing Group, LLC, has requested a rezoning from Interim Development
– Multi-Family Residential (ID-RM) to Medium Density Multi-Family Residential Zone (RM-
20) and Low Density Multi-Family Residential Zone (RM-12). The total project site, located
at 4643 Herbert Hoover Highway is south of Herbert Hoover Highway and east of Scott
Boulevard, is 7.90 acres. The applicant has requested rezoning approximately 2.35 acres to
RM-12, 1.86 acres to RM-20. The remainder of the site will remain Interim Development-
Single Family Residential (ID-RS).
The City annexed the property in 2017 and it is currently undeveloped. At the time of
annexation, the property was rezoned to Interim Single-Family Development (ID-RS) and
Interim Multi-Family Development (ID-RM) with no conditions attached. To the west of the
annexed property is the Olde Town Village commercial and mixed-use area.
The applicant has used the “Good Neighbor Policy”, and a Good Neighbor Meeting took
place on September 25, 2018 at Helen Lemme Elementary School. One neighboring
resident attended the meeting and expressed concerns related to construction site runoff
and stormwater management. They also expressed concerns related to the proposed
public street.
ANALYSIS:
Current Zoning: The property is currently zoned Interim Development – Single Family
Residential (ID-RS) and Interim Development – Multi-Family Residential (ID-RM). The
Interim Development zoning designation applies to undeveloped properties without access
to City services. Interim Development Zones provide for areas of managed growth in which
agricultural and other nonurban uses of land may continue until the city is able to provide
services and urban development can occur. Based on conversations with Public Works
staff, rezoning can occur at this time due to the proximity to current City water and sanitary
sewer, which the developer will be able to access. Public Works staff has requested water
pressure testing to ensure adequate water pressure is available to the site.
Proposed Zoning: The applicant has proposed a three part project with the rezoning for
Phases A & B taking place now, and C sometime in the future. For Phase A, the applicant
has proposed rezoning approximately 2.55 acres in the northwest of the parcel to Low
Density Multi-Family Residential (RM-12). The RM-12 zone district allows for both single-
family and multi-family housing. A maximum of 37 units would be allowed on the 2.55
acres. For this section of the project, the applicant has proposed an affordable, family
apartment building on this site. The applicant has secured tax credits from the Iowa
Finance Authority for the project.
For Phase B, the applicant has also proposed rezoning approximately 1.79 acres in the
northeast of the parcel to Medium Density Multi-Family Residential (RM-20). The RM-20
zone district allows for both single-family and multi-family housing, and the maximum
density allowed in this zoning district is 24 units per acre. The applicant is considering
either a multi-family housing community of around 45 units or a senior housing community
of around 52 units. A maximum of 45 units would be allowed on this 1.79 acre area,
however, if the applicant pursues the senior housing community the applicant can apply for
a 25% density bonus for elder apartment housing, which would bring the maximum
allowable dwelling units to 56.
In the future, the applicant wishes to rezone the southern portion of this property for Phase
C, but for now has requested to keep this portion of the site as Interim Development-Single
Family (ID-RS).
Compliance with Comprehensive Plan: The Future Land Use Map of the Comprehensive
Plan has designated this area for residential development at a density of 2-8 dwelling units
per acre. The maximum number of dwelling units allowed by the Comprehensive Plan for
the 4.34 acre site being rezoned is 34 dwelling units. The rezoning requested would exceed
the dwelling units called for in the comprehensive plan; however, the comprehensive plan
also calls for development on smaller lots to conserve land and allow for more affordable
housing, as well as providing a mix of housing types to provide options for households of
all types and income levels. Additionally, the Northeast District Plan encourages housing
diversity and a mixture of single family residential along with townhomes and small
apartment buildings. The Northeast District Plan lays out how this should be done by
locating townhouses and apartment buildings adjacent to neighborhood commercial areas
and at intersections of arterial and collector streets.
City staff finds the proposed rezoning is consistent with the Comprehensive and District
Plans due to the location of the project near the Olde Town Village commercial areas and
along the Herbert Hoover Highway arterial, therefore a mixture of housing types, including
multi-family, is appropriate. Additionally, the development of a variety of housing types as
proposed addresses the goal of creating housing for a mix of household types and income
levels.
Compatibility with Neighborhood: The project site is located on a site annexed in 2017 just
south of Herbert Hoover Highway. The areas to the north, east, and south are not within
Iowa City boundaries, and are currently undeveloped and agricultural, though they are
zoned residential. The area to the west is a neighborhood commercial area with attached
and detached multi-family housing to the south of the commercial area. To the southwest
of the project site is commercial office.
City staff finds that the proposed rezoning is compatible with the neighborhood. The
proposed rezoning places the RM-12 zone district to the northwestern area of the project
site, which will place an apartment building next to the neighborhood commercial area,
and south of the Herbert Hoover Highway arterial. The proposed rezoning also places the
RM-20 zone south of the Herbert Hoover Highway arterial, and east of the RM-12 zone. This
focuses the higher density housing along the arterial and next to neighborhood
commercial.
The applicant has provided a concept plan and elevation for the design of the two multi-
unit buildings. The proposed multi-family communities are subject to the multi-family site
development standards outlined in the zoning code. The purpose of these standards is to
promote safe, attractive, and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. The standards address
multiple design elements, such as screening, landscaping, building placement, and
building articulation. Staff will review the project against these standards at the site plan
review stage.
Traffic Implications, Access, and Street Design: The Northeast District Plan discusses the
importance of an interconnected transportation system. Therefore, this site will be
accessed via Herbert Hoover Highway by a proposed north/south road to be constructed by
the developer. The proposed north/south road will eventually end at the southern property
line allowing for an extension should the parcel to the south redevelop. The maintenance of
the north/south road will be the property owner’s responsibility until the completion of
Phase B. Once completed, the road will be dedicated to the City, and at that time, the City
will take over maintenance. Staff recommends adding a condition requiring the provision
of the north/south street, built to City standards, to be platted and dedicated to the City as a
public improvement in accordance with a subdivider’s agreement, in a form acceptable to
the City Attorney. Staff has also received a concept plan that shows the general layout of
the buildings and the north/south road. Staff recommends adding a condition requiring
general conformance with the concept plan in terms of the layout of the roadway.
Herbert Hoover Highway is the arterial street connecting the property to the rest of Iowa
City. Per the Iowa DOT, the current average daily traffic on Herbert Hoover Highway is 4,650
and the theoretical capacity of this arterial is approximately 15,200. Therefore, the roadway
can accommodate traffic associated with the proposed rezoning.
Herbert Hoover Highway is currently not built to City standards because there is no curb,
gutter or storm sewer. The Subdivision Code gives the City the discretion to approve
development on roads that do not meet City standards, provided the developer contributes
to the cost of improvement. For arterial streets, the fee is 12.5% of the cost for street
improvement, based on the City Engineer’s estimate.
The RM-12 and RM-20 zone districts require a 40-foot building setback from arterials. Due
to the number of dwelling units allowed in the proposed multi-family zone districts, staff
recommends adding a condition requiring a detailed landscaping plan at the time of
platting to ensure landscaping along Herbert Hoover Highway provides a noise and wind
buffer from the arterial. Staff suggests working with the City Arborist to identify appropriate
species for buffering and an appropriate tree density.
Currently, there is an 8-foot sidewalk built on the south side of Herbert Hoover Highway.
This also acts as a sidepath for bicycles. The subdivision ordinance requires sidewalks on
both sides of public and private streets, so additional sidewalks will be required at the
time of platting along the proposed north/south street.
The proposed development is closest to the Eastside Express bus line, with a bus stop
approximately half a mile away. Slightly further are the Eastside Loop and Rochester
lines.
Neighborhood Parkland or Fees in Lieu of: The Northeast District Plan calls for increasing
neighborhood opportunities for accessing open space by incorporating pocket parks as
well as smaller public or private open space areas. Per the open space dedication
requirement formula, the developers must account for approximately 0.28 acres of public
open space or pay a fee in-lieu.
Infrastructure Fees: For this 4.34 acre area being rezoned, there is a requirement of $435
per acre for water infrastructure. There is another infrastructure fee of $1,038.26 per acre
that covers the cost of taping into the City’s sanitary sewer system.
SUMMARY:
Based on the analysis, staff finds that the proposed rezoning with certain conditions
attached fits with both the Comprehensive Plan and the Northeast District Plan, especially
when considering the affordable and mixed-type of housing proposed. The proposed
rezoning would allow for multi-family as well as single family housing at various densities.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the approval of REZ18-00020, an application submitted by IC Housing,
LLC, for a rezoning from ID-RM to RM-20 for approximately 1.79 acres and RM-12 for
approximately 2.55 acres on approximately 4.34 acres of property located south of Herbert
Hoover Highway and east of Scott Blvd subject to City Council approval of the following
conditions:
1) A north/south street shall be built to City standards and dedicated to the City as a
public improvement in accordance with a subdivider’s agreement, in a form
acceptable to the City Attorney.
2) A detailed landscaping plan to be approved by the City Arborist to ensure a
landscaped area that buffers noise and wind from the proposed housing
communities at the time of platting.
3) No building permit shall be issued for the subject property until the City Council
approves a final plat that conforms to the proposed zoning boundaries and
generally conforms with the street layout on the concept plan.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Location Map with Current Zoning
2. Zoning Exhibit-Proposed Zoning
3. Concept Plan
4. Concept Elevation
5. Summary of Good Neighborhood Meeting & Sign-in Sheet
6. Letter from neighboring property owner
Approved by: _________________________________________________________
Danielle Sitzman, AICP, Development Services Coordinator
RM12
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REZ18-000204643 Herbert Hoover Highway SEµ
0 0.085 0.170.0425 Miles
Prepared By: Luke FoelschDate Prepared: Sep. 2018
An application submitted by IC Housing Group, LLCfor a rezoning of 7.9 acres located at 4643 Herbert HooverHighway SE from Interim Development Single-FamilyResidential (ID-RS) and Interim Development Multi-FamilyResidential (ID-RM) to Low Density Multi-Family Residential(RM-12), Medium Density Multi-Family Residential (RM-20),and High Density Single-Family Residential (RS-12).
RM12
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To remain
ID-RS
RM-20
REZ18-000204643 Herbert Hoover Highway SEµ
0 0.085 0.170.0425 Miles
Prepared By: Luke FoelschDate Prepared: Sep. 2018
An application submitted by IC Housing Group, LLCfor a rezoning of 7.9 acres located at 4643 Herbert HooverHighway SE from Interim Development Single-FamilyResidential (ID-RS) and Interim Development Multi-FamilyResidential (ID-RM) to Low Density Multi-Family Residential(RM-12), Medium Density Multi-Family Residential (RM-20),and High Density Single-Family Residential (RS-12).
Summary Report for
Good Neighbor Meeting
Project Name: ___________________________Project Location: _________________________
Meeting Date and Time: ________________________________________________________
Meeting Location: _____________________________________________________________
Names of Applicant Representatives attending: ______________________________________
______________________________________
Names of City Staff Representatives attending: _______________________________________
Number of Neighbors Attending: ________ Sign-In Attached? Yes ______ No ______
General Comments received regarding project (attach additional sheets if necessary)-
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
Concerns expressed regarding project (attach additional sheets if necessary) -
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
Will there be any changes made to the proposal based on this input? If so, describe:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Staff Representative Comments
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NEX/IC Housing Group II, LLC
4643 Herbert Hoover Highway SE
September 25, 2018 from 5:30 to 7:00 pm
Helen Lemme Elementary School Library
Megan Carr
Nikki Sand
Anne Russett, Jesi Lile
1X
Why does the road need to run to the southern property line?
Overall, no opposition to the proposed development, but concerns on stormwater runoff.
Concerns relating to stormwater runoff (as a neighboring developer is currently
impacting the neighbors ponds with stormwater runoff).
IC Housing Group, LLC has requested clarification from the City to determine if we can
have the road end in a cul-de-sac or if a dead-end road to the southern property line will be required.
Date: October 18, 2018
To: Planning & Zoning Commission
From: Jesi Lile, Associate Planner & Anne Russett, AICP, Senior Planner
Re: CZ18-00002 South of American Legion Road
Background Information
The applicants, Claude and Adam Greiner, are requesting a rezoning from County
Agricultural (A) to County Residential (R) for approximately 11.34 acres of property
located in Johnson County South of American Legion Road and West of Wapsie Avenue
SE in Fringe Area B – Outside of Iowa City’s Growth Area. Because the property is within
Iowa City’s two-mile Fringe Area, the Fringe Area Agreement specifies that the City will
make a recommendation to the County Planning and Zoning Commission before the
County Commission considers the application. The final decision on the rezoning falls
within the County’s jurisdiction.
If this rezoning is approved, Claude and Adam Greiner intend to develop a county
subdivision, and divide the land into seven single family residential lots and one outlot.
As proposed, each buildable lot is slightly larger than one acre and each lot will have its
own septic system. There will also be a private well installed to service all seven lots. The
proposed outlot would serve as an area for storm water management. City approval will
be required if the property is subdivided as proposed.
Analysis
Existing Land Use and Zoning
The subject property is currently zoned County Agricultural (A) and has two grain bins
located on the site. Properties to the north, east, and west are zoned County Agricultural
(A) and County Residential (R), with residential properties lining American Legion Road.
Properties to the south are zoned County Agricultural (A) and are being used for row
crops.
Proposed Zoning & Surrounding Area
The applicant is requesting a rezoning to County Residential (R) which allows for single
family homes on lots at least 40,000 square feet. The area along American Legion Road
currently has many residential properties to the northwest. Areas to the east and south
remain in agricultural production.
Compliance with the County’s Comprehensive Plan
The County recently updated its Comprehensive Plan and the Future Land Use Map of
the comprehensive plan designates this area Residential. The Residential land use
category allows for, “single-family detached dwellings with a preferred density of one unit
per acre or denser.” Although the density shown on the concept plan is less than one
dwelling unit per acre, the proposed rezoning is generally consistent with the County’s
Comprehensive Plan.
October 12, 2018
Page 2
Compliance with the Fringe Area Agreement
In reviewing proposed rezonings in the Fringe Area, staff relies on the policies outlined in
the Fringe Area Agreement. The Fringe Area Agreement is a component of the City’s
Comprehensive Plan and applies to areas not specifically planned for in the City’s
Comprehensive Plan. The Fringe Area Agreement is intended to provide guidance
regarding the development of land located within two miles of Iowa City’s corporate limits.
The agreement’s slated purposed is to provide for orderly and efficient development
patterns appropriate to non-urbanized areas, protect and preserve the fringe area’s
natural resources and environmentally sensitive features, direct development to areas
with physical characteristics which can accommodate development, and effectively and
economically provide services for future growth and development.
This property is located in Fringe Area B – Outside the City’s Growth Area. For this area,
the agreement states that agricultural uses are preferred. Specifically, the agreement
states:
“Until otherwise changed by amending this agreement, this area shall be
restricted to those uses consistent with a Rural/Agricultural area as
indicated in the Johnson County Land Use Plan, and as designated for a
Rural/Agriculture area in Chapter 8:1.6 Class A District of the Johnson
County Unified Development Ordinance, as amended.”
According to the Johnson County Comprehensive Plan, the Agricultural land use category
envisions agricultural uses, such as row crops and animal husbandry, with “very limited
residential development.” According to the Johnson County Zoning Code, Agricultur al
uses are defined as farms, nurseries and greenhouses, orchards and tree farms, with
residential uses to be restricted to two single-family dwellings on a farm 40 acres or larger.
Staff recognizes the conflict that exists between the County’s updated Co mprehensive
Plan and the adopted Fringe Area Agreement. The County’s Comprehensive Plan also
outlines a goal to work with local jurisdictions on updating Fringe Area Agreement. Staff
is willing to coordinate with County staff to update the Fringe Area Agreement to address
these conflicts.
Staff Recommendation
Based on the policies outlined in the Fringe Area Agreement, which is part of the City’s
Comprehensive Plan, staff does not recommend approval of this rezoning. Staff
recognizes that the proposed rezoning is consistent with the County’s recently updated
Comprehensive Plan; however, staff relies on the Fringe Area policies when reviewing
rezonings in the Fringe Area.
Attachments:
1. Aerial photo
2. Rezoning exhibit
3. Concept plan
Approved by: ________________________________________________
Danielle Sitzman, AICP, Development Services Coordinator
Department of Neighborhood and Development Services
SCOTTBLVD SETAFTAVE SEAME
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CZ18-00002South of American Legion Road SEµ
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Prepared By: Luke FoelschDate Prepared: Sep. 2018
An application submitted by Claude J.and Mary F. Greiner for the rezoning ofapproximately 11.34 acres from CountyAgricultural (A) to County Residential (R).
Iowa City Limits
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CZ18-00002South of American Legion Road SEµ
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Prepared By: Luke FoelschDate Prepared: Sep. 2018
An application submitted by Claude J.and Mary F. Greiner for the rezoning ofapproximately 11.34 acres from CountyAgricultural (A) to County Residential (R).
Date: October 18, 2018
To: Planning & Zoning Commission
From: Anne Russett, AICP, Senior Planner, Neighborhood & Development Services
Re: Amendment to Title 14, Zoning Code of the Iowa City Code related to Transfer of
Development Rights for Historic Properties (ZCA18-0003)
Introduction
At the City Council’s May 29, 2018 meeting the Council considered the local landmark designation
of the property at 410-412 North Clinton Street. At this meeting the property owner’s attorney
requested that the Council defer action on the local landmark designation until the City reviews
and analyzes the establishment of a city-wide transfer of development rights (TDR) program for
historic properties. The Council voted to defer action on the local landmark designation for eight
months and directed staff to explore the creation of a city-wide TDR ordinance.
Since that meeting, staff prepared two memos to the City Manager regarding a potential ordinance
[Attachments 1 and 2] and the City Council discussed the establishment of a city-wide TDR
ordinance for historic preservation at two work sessions and directed staff to move forward with
its development for Council’s consideration. [Attachment 3]
At the Planning and Zoning Commission’s meeting on October 18, staff will present a draft TDR
ordinance [Attachment 4] for the Commission’s review and recommendation. This memo provides
a background on TDR programs, summarizes the existing TDR provisions in Riverfront Crossings,
and outlines the draft ordinance. The draft is based on a September 4 work session discussion
with the City Council.
Background & Overview of TDR Programs
Created to protect natural resources, farmland, and open spaces, as well as preserve historic
resources TDR programs create an incentive for property owners to preserve these resources
by allowing them to sell or transfer development rights from the property being protected to
another site where development can occur at a higher density or intensity than allowed in the
underlying zoning designation.
Generally, TDR programs have the following components:
• Sending Areas: Areas identified for protection. These areas are typically required to be
preserved and all or a portion of the development potential of the property could be
transferred to another site.
• Receiving Areas: Areas where the development rights from the sending sites could be
transferred. These are areas where the City wants to encourage growth and
development at a higher density or intensity than currently allowed. These areas should
have adequate public services and utilities to accommodate additional growth, as well as
a healthy market demand for growth.
• Transfer Calculations: TDR programs can allow the transfer of all or a portion of the
development potential of a sending site. Ordinances must outline how the transfers are
calculated.
October 12, 2018
Page 2
• Process & Administration: TDR programs need to establish a process for how transfers
are reviewed and approved. Additionally, transfers must be tracked over time (i.e. how
many transfers do property owners in the sending area have; how many have been
transferred and how many remain; where have they been transferred).
Summary of Riverfront Crossings Form-Based Code TDR Ordinance
The City currently has a TDR ordinance in the Riverfront Crossings District for the dedication of
open space, preservation of historic properties, and the dedication of public right -of-way. Below
is a summary of the existing provisions for historic structures:
• Eligible sending sites include properties designated as an Iowa City Landmark, eligible for
landmark designation, registered on the National Register of Historic Places, or listed as
a historically significant building per a survey
• Prior to requesting a transfer of development rights, the property must be designated as
an Iowa City Landmark to ensure its protection long-term
• Receiving sites include properties within the Riverfront Crossings District
• The formula for calculating the transfer is Lot Area of the Sending Site X Maximum Number
of Stories Allowed on the Sending Site = Square Footage Eligible for Transfer
• City Council must review and approve all projects receiving transfer of development rights
• No transfer can exceed the maximum height allowed through the building height bonus
provisions, which varies depending on the subdistrict
In 2015, the City Council approved a transfer of development rights from the Tate Arms building
at 914 S. Dubuque (sending site) to a new building at the corner of S. Dubuque and Benton
Streets (201 E. Benton & 912 S. Dubuque (receiving site)). Out of the 34,800 square feet of
development rights available for transfer, the Council approved a transfer of 7,400 square feet
to add a 5th story to the building. The property owner has 27,400 square feet of development
rights remaining to transfer. This is the only transfer applied for and approved since the adoption
of the Riverfront Crossings Form-Based Code in 2014.
Proposed City-wide TDR Ordinance for Historic Preservation
Based on the direction provided by the City Council, staff has developed a draft ordinance to apply
city-wide. A summary of the key components of the draft ordinance is outlined below.
Eligible Sending Sites
Staff proposes that eligible sending sites include properties eligible for Iowa City historic landmark
designation. More specifically, a sending site must be designated as an Iowa City historic
landmark after the adoption of the proposed city-wide ordinance in order to be eligible for the
transfer incentive. Furthermore, properties already within existing Iowa City historic districts and
conservation districts are not eligible to obtain Iowa City landmark status and benefit from the
TDR incentive.
Eligible Receiving Sites
The eligible receiving sites proposed include the properties zoned Riverfront Crossings and zone
districts that allow multi-family dwellings either as a permitted or provisional use1. This includes
all multi-family residential zone districts and several commercial zone districts. Properties
designated as Iowa City historic landmarks, Iowa City historic districts, and designated in the
National Register of Historic Places are not eligible as receiving sites. [Attachment 5]
1 Permitted uses are allowed by-right. Provisional uses are permitted if they meet certain use specific criteria
and standards.
October 12, 2018
Page 3
Transfer of Development Rights
Staff proposes to consider transfer requests for either a height bonus or a density bonus, but not
both a height and density bonus. Additionally, staff proposes to allow transfer requests to exceed
either the height or density permitted on the receiving site, but restrict any height bonus to no
more than 40 feet above the maximum height allowed. Staff does not recommend any restrictions
on the increase in density transferred.
Staff proposes to calculate these transfers as follows:
(1) Height Bonus Option:
• Difference between the maximum allowable height of the sending site and the
existing height of the historic structure.
• In cases where the transfer is less than 12 feet, staff suggests including a
provision that 12 feet may be transferred even if the difference is less than 12
feet. In many instances historic properties are residentially zoned, which
typically have a maximum of 35 feet. Since historic buildings typically have
higher ceilings a two-story historic building may not result in much of a height
transfer. Therefore, staff suggests allowing a transfer of 12 feet, which will allow
a minimum of at least one story to be transferred.
(1) Density Bonus Option:
• Difference between the maximum number of dwelling units allowed on the
sending site based on the underlying zoning designation at the time of Iowa City
historic landmark designation and the existing number of dwelling units on the
sending site.
Transfer Review Process
Staff proposes that any request for a transfer be reviewed by t he staff design review committee,
which will then submit a recommendation to the City Council for their review and approval.
Historic Preservation Commission Review
On October 11, staff presented the proposed ordinance to the Historic Preservation Commission.
The Commission voted to move the proposed ordinance forward in the process; however, they
did outline some concerns and suggestions. Below is a list of their comments and staff’s feedback.
1. The Commission expressed concern that the proposed ordinance only applies to future
Iowa City landmarks.
In 2018, the City Council approved Iowa City landmark designation status for the following
properties:
• David Boarts (Sylvanus Johnson) House, 412 N. Dubuque Street
• George and Hellen Hummer House, 504 E. Bloomington Street
• Parrott House, 1029 N. Dodge Street
• Albert Henry Byfield House, 715 Park Road
• Anton Geiger House, 213 E. Market Street
The Commission felt that these recent designations should receive the incentive due to
their very recent designation. The Commission also expressed concern that the proposed
ordinance could deter downtown property owners from supporting a downtown district.
October 12, 2018
Page 4
The Commission suggested considering allowing future Iowa City commercial historic
districts, and potentially, future districts, in general, to be eligible for the incentive.
Staff agrees with the suggestion to allow the incentive to apply to the properties
designated in 2018. In addition, staff agrees with the suggestion to allow the incentive to
apply to properties within future Iowa City historic districts to help incentivize the creation
of local historic districts. Based on a conversation with the Historic Preservation Planner,
at present there are a limited number of areas in the city that would be eligible for a local
historic district. Lastly, to ensure consistency between the city-wide ordinance and the
existing Riverfront Crossing’s ordinance, staff also recommends amending the TDR
provisions in Riverfront Crossings to include Iowa City historic districts.
2. The Commission expressed some concern over the receiving sites and the potential
impact of additional height and density in existing residential neighborhoods. One
Commissioner expressed concern regarding the process and lack of confidence in the
design review committee.
The proposed ordinance suggests capping height bonus transfers at 40 feet beyond the
maximum height of the receiving site. In addition, any request will need to be reviewed by
the design review committee and City Council. However, to address the Commission’s
concerns staff recommends incorporating the following provisions that protect existing
single-family neighborhoods: For transfers proposed next to single-family residences, limit
the height to two stories above the height of the existing single-family home.
3. Lastly, the Commission requested that staff explore other incentives, such as property tax
reductions.
Comprehensive Plan Consistency
The draft ordinance supports the following Comprehensive Plan Land Use Goal and Strategy:
Goal: Continue to protect our community’s historical, environmental, and
aesthetic assets.
Strategy: Develop strategies to encourage the protection of natural areas
and historic features and support the enhancement of areas that can serve
as assets and/or amenities for adjacent development.
The City’s Historic Preservation Plan is a component of the Comprehensive Plan. The draft
ordinance supports the following historic preservation goals:
Goal 2: Make protection of historic resources a municipal policy and implement
this policy through effective and efficient legislation and regulatory measures.
Goal 3: Establish economic incentives to encourage the preservation of historic
buildings and neighborhoods.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Planning and Zoning Commission recommend adoption of the draft
ordinance by the Iowa City City Council.
October 12, 2018
Page 5
Attachments:
1. July 18, 2018 Memo to Geoff Fruin, City Manager
2. August 29, 2018 Memo to Geoff Fruin, City Manager
3. Staff presentation to City Council, September 4, 2018
4. Draft Ordinance
5. Proposed Eligible Receiving Sites Map
Approved by: ________________________________________________
Danielle Sitzman, AICP, Development Services Coordinator
Department of Neighborhood and Development Services
Date: July 18, 2018
To: Geoff Fruin, City Manager
From: Anne Russett, Senior Planner
Danielle Sitzman, Development Services Coordinator
Tracy Hightshoe, Director, Neighborhood & Development Services
Re: Update on Possible City-wide Transfer of Development Rights Program for Historic
Preservation
Introduction
At the City Council’s May 29, 2018 meeting the Council considered the local landmark designation
of the property at 410-412 North Clinton Street. At this meeting the property owner’s attorney
requested that the Council defer action on the local landmark designation until the City reviews
and analyzes the establishment of a city-wide transfer of development rights (TDR) program for
historic properties. The Council voted to defer action on the local landmark designation for eight
months and directed staff to explore the creation of a city-wide TDR ordinance.
This memo provides an overview of TDR, outlines the City’s existing TDR policy in the Riverfront
Crossings District, and highlights some issues that staff will need to further analyze before moving
forward with a city-wide TDR ordinance.
Background & Overview of TDR Programs
Created to protect natural resources, farmland, and open spaces, as well as preserve historic
resources TDR programs create an incentive for property owners to preserve these resources
by allowing them to sell or transfer development rights from the property being protected to
another site where development can occur at a higher density or intensity than allowed in the
underlying zoning designation.
Generally, TDR programs have the following components:
• Sending Areas: Areas identified for protection. These areas are typically required to be
preserved and all or a portion of the development potential of the property could be
transferred to another site.
• Receiving Areas: Areas where the development rights from the sending sites could be
transferred. These are areas where the City wants to encourage growth and
development at a higher density or intensity than currently allowed. These areas should
have adequate public services and utilities to accommodate additional growth, as well as
a healthy market demand for growth.
• Transfer Calculations: TDR programs can allow the transfer of all or a portion of the
development potential of a sending site. Ordinances must outline how the transfers are
calculated and consider the following: 1) is there a market for these transfers; 2) can the
infrastructure in the receiving area handle the additional development; 3) does the
comprehensive plan support the additional development in the receiving area.
• Process & Administration: TDR programs need to establish a process for how transfers
are reviewed and approved. Additionally, transfers must be tracked over time (i.e. how
many transfers do property owners in the sending area have; how many have been
transferred and how many remain; where have they been transferred).
ATTACHMENT 1.
October 12, 2018
Page 2
Summary of Riverfront Crossings Form-Based Code TDR Ordinance
The City currently has a TDR ordinance in the Riverfront Crossings District for the dedication of
open space, preservation of historic properties, and the dedication of public right -of-way. Below
is a summary of the existing provisions for historic structures:
• Eligible sending sites include properties designated as an Iowa City Landmark, eligible for
landmark designation, registered on the National Register of Historic Places, or listed as
a historically significant building per a survey
• Prior to requesting a transfer of development rights, the property must be designated as
an Iowa City Landmark to ensure its protection long-term
• Receiving sites include properties within the Riverfront Crossings District
• The formula for calculating the transfer is Lot Area of the Sending Site X Maximum Number
of Stories Allowed on the Sending Site = Square Footage Eligible for Transfer
• City Council must review and approve all projects receiving transfer of development rights
even when the resulting height bonus does not exceed two stories
• No transfer can exceed the maximum height allowed through the building height bonus
provisions, which varies depending on the subdistrict
In 2015, the City Council approved a transfer of development rights from the Tate Arms building
at 914 S. Dubuque (sending site) to a new building at the corner of S. Dubuque and Benton
Streets (201 E. Benton & 912 S. Dubuque (receiving site)). Out of the 34,800 square feet of
development rights available for transfer, the Council approved a transfer of 7,400 square feet
to add a 5th story to the building. The property owner has 27,400 square feet of development
rights remaining to transfer. This is the only transfer applied for and approved since the adoption
of the Riverfront Crossings Form-Based Code in 2014.
Potential Receiving Areas for a City-wide Historic Preservation TDR Program
At the City Council’s May 29, 2018 meeting the Council seemed interested in identifying potential
receiving areas for a city-wide ordinance. The table below outlines some potential options for
receiving areas, as well as some pros and cons.
Potential Receiving Area Pros Cons
Riverfront Crossings - Master Plan & form-
based code
encourage higher
densities and
intensities
- Current receiving area
for the form-based
code TDR program for
historic preservation,
public right-of-way,
and open space
transfers
- Current allowable
densities and
intensities combined
with height bonus
provisions are
generous
Downtown - Core of the city with
access to amenities,
services, and
transportation options
- Receiving properties
in the downtown may
be limited due to the
results of the
downtown historic
building survey that is
underway
South Johnson Street and
South Van Buren Street
between Court Street &
Railroad
- Area already zoned
for higher density
housing
- Smaller geographic
area that may not be
able to accommodate
October 12, 2018
Page 3
- Transfers could
provide an incentive
for redevelopment of
this area
the demand of a city-
wide ordinance
Land designated for multi-unit
development
- Areas are already
zoned for higher
density housing
- More scattered
approach that would
not concentrate
transfers in one area
- Potential concern
from neighboring
property owners
Any combination of the above
areas
Next Steps & Conclusion
Between now and September 2018 staff will further analyze the possibility of a city-wide
ordinance. Specifically, staff will:
- Conduct best practice research
- Review other local jurisdictions’ TDR programs
- Further analyze potential receiving areas
- Identify sending areas based on Riverfront Crossings criteria and estimate the amount of
potential transfers
The proposed timeline for the project is as follows:
Date Task
June – August 2018 Research and analysis
September 4, 2018 Presentation to Council on research;
recommendation from Council to proceed or
not proceed on ordinance drafting
September– October 2018 Ordinance drafting, if determined by Council
October 11, 2018 Historic Preservation Commission Review &
Discussion
October 18, 2018 Planning & Zoning Commission Review &
Discussion
November 1, 2018 Planning & Zoning Commission Review &
Recommendation
November 20, 2018 City Council (1st reading of ordinance)
December 4, 2019 City Council (2nd & possible 3rd reading of
ordinance)
January 29, 2019 Expiration of 8-month deferral of the local
landmark designation of 410-412 North
Clinton Street
Date: August 29, 2018
To: Geoff Fruin, City Manager
From: Anne Russett, AICP, Senior Planner, Neighborhood & Development Services
Danielle Sitzman, AICP, Development Services Coordinator, Neighborhood &
Development Services
Re: Update on Research and Policy Questions regarding Possible City-wide Transfer of
Development Rights Program for Historic Preservation
Introduction
At the City Council’s May 29, 2018 meeting the Council considered the local landmark designation
of the property at 410-412 North Clinton Street. At this meeting the property owner’s attorney
requested that the Council defer action on the local landmark designation until the City reviews
and analyzes the establishment of a city-wide transfer of development rights (TDR) program for
historic properties. The Council voted to defer action on the local landmark designation until the
end of January 2019 and directed staff to explore the creation of a city-wide TDR ordinance.
At the August 7 work session, the City Council discussed the July 18 memo to the City Manager,
which provided an overview of TDR, summarized the City’s existing TDR provisions in Riverfront
Crossings, and outlined potential receiving areas. At the work session, the Mayor expressed
interest in South Johnson and South Van Buren Streets from Court Street to the railroad tracks
being a receiving area if an urban design plan existed for the area.
This memo provides an update on staff’s research and analysis and outlines specific policy
questions for the City Council. In order to meet the January 2019 deadline, staff needs direction
from the City Council on the following: the formula for calculating the transfer of development
rights, the priority of preserving historic resources compared to bonus provisions currently offered
for other public benefits, the process for the review and approval of development transfers, and
areas to further pursue as receiving sites. In general, staff recommends a program that is fair,
legally-sound, easy to administer, and simple to understand. Additionally, staff wants an effective
program that preserves historic resources while not compromising the ability to achieve other
important comprehensive plan goals.
Overview of Research & Analysis
Sending Areas
Staff conducted an analysis of possible sending areas in order to estimate the potential for
development transfers. Staff estimated the amount of development that could be transferred
through a city-wide TDR program by applying the existing Riverfront Crossings transfer formula 1.
Furthermore, the Riverfront Crossings TDR provisions require that prior to requesting a transfer
of development rights, the property must be designated as a local landmark. Therefore, in this
analysis staff applied the transfer formula to existing landmarks (see Table 1).
1 The formula for calculating the transfer in Riverfront Crossings is Lot Area of the Sending Site X Maximum
Number of Stories Allowed on the Sending Site = Square Footage Eligible for Transfer
ATTACHMENT 2.
October 5, 2018
Page 2
Table 1. Summary of Transfer Potential of Local and NRHP-Listed Landmarks
Sending Sites Development Transfer Potential 2
(square feet)
Local Landmarks Only 4,367,068 3
Local Landmarks & National Register of
Historic Places-Listed Landmarks)
5,368,997 4
The analysis conducted only looks at existing local and national landmarks. There are several
other buildings that are eligible for local landmark designation and the Historic Preservation
Commission has been proactively identifying sites to locally landmark. The City is also in the midst
of a survey of downtown historic properties. Several properties in the downtown are eligible for
local landmark designation. As more properties are landmarked the transfer potential will continue
to increase.
Staff reviewed several other TDR programs. Of the programs reviewed, none applied only to
future landmark designations. In other words, existing and future landmarks qualified as sending
sites. However, some cities required rehabilitation of the historic structure prior to becoming
eligible as a sending site.
Receiving Areas
The areas identified by staff as potential receiving areas include:
• Riverfront Crossings,
• Downtown,
• South Johnson and South Van Buren Streets between Court Street and the Railroad, and
• Land Designated for Multi-Unit Development throughout the city.
Using these areas, staff conducted an analysis to determine the amount of existing development
potential (see Table 2). For the analysis, staff identified vacant and underutilized sites within the
potential receiving areas. The following areas were removed from the analysis: land within the
500-year and 100-year floodplains, local historic landmarks, local historic districts, conservation
districts, and publicly zoned land. In addition, several historic properties in the downtown were
removed from the analysis. For a more detailed outlined of the methodology, please refer to
Attachment 1.
Table 2. Summary of Development Potential for Receiving Areas
Potential Receiving Areas Development Potential
(square feet)
Development Potential
(dwelling units)
Riverfront Crossings 2,522,313 5 -
Downtown 242,471 6 -
South Johnson Street & South
Van Buren Street between
Court Street and the Railroad 7
-
-
Citywide Land Designated for
Multi-unit Development
5,389,525 8
845
Total 8,154,309 9 845 10
2 Staff used the square footage of the RISE, which is 363,268 sq ft (excluding the lower levels), as a gauge.
3 Approximately equivalent to 12 RISE buildings.
4 Approximately equivalent to 15 RISE buildings.
5 Approximately equivalent to 7 RISE buildings.
6 Approximately equivalent to 0.67 RISE buildings.
7 None of the properties met staff’s criteria for underutilized.
8 Approximately equivalent to 15 RISE buildings.
9 Approximately equivalent to 22 RISE buildings.
10 The residential portion of the RISE includes 332 dwelling units.
October 5, 2018
Page 3
Accommodating the potential development transfers depends on a number of factors, including
the eligible sending and eligible receiving sites. Another option to consider that could also help
preserve historic structures is a parking reduction. Instead of transferring development rights, the
receiving site could purchase the right to receive a parking reduction. Staff has not explored this
thoroughly. More research is required to better understand the viability of this option.
Other Local Jurisdictions’ TDR Programs
Staff also reviewed other local jurisdictions’ TDR programs across the country that focus on
preserving historic resources. For a more detailed overview of other programs, please refer to
Attachment 2.
Transfer Formulas
There are different ways to approach calculating the transfer rights from a sending site to a
receiving site. Several cities consider the existing development on the sending site. More
specifically, these cities calculate the transfer by taking the maximum development potential of
the sending site less the existing development on the sending site. To provide an incentive, many
cities also allow development to exceed the maximum allowable density/intensity on the receiving
site. Table 3 outlines some examples.
Table 3. Example Transfer Formulas
Local Jurisdiction Transfer Formula
Chico, CA (Max density of the sending zone X Acreage
of sending site) Less (Existing and proposed
Number of dwelling units on the sending site)
*Receiving site bonus above that allowed by
comprehensive plan
Minneapolis, MN (Max allowable floor area of the sending site)
Less (Floor area of existing development on
sending site)
*Receiving site bonus of 30% above max
allowable floor area
Pittsburgh, PA (Max allowable development) Less (Existing
amount of development)
*Receiving site density bonus of between 20%
and 200%
Providence, RI (Max allowable height) Less (Height of historic
landmark)
*Receiving site bonus height of 1.6 times the
max height or 300 ft, whichever is less.
Vancouver, WA (Max allowable floor area of the sending site)
Less (Existing floor area of the sending site)
*Receiving site development must not pose
hazard to low-flying aircraft.
West Hollywood, CA Residential: (Max allowable dwelling units)
Less (Existing number of dwelling units)
Commercial: (Max allowable floor area) Less
(Existing floor area)
*Receiving site FAR bonus allowed through
Planning Commission review and approval.
West Palm Beach, FL (Lot area X Max allowable floors) Less (Floor
area of existing structure)
*Receiving site height bonus.
Compared with these other local jurisdictions, the City’s current transfer formula in Riverfront
Crossings is very generous. Unlike the examples above, the formula in Riverfront Crossings does
not take into consideration the existing development on the sending site. In establishing the
October 5, 2018
Page 4
transfer formula for Riverfront Crossings, staff anticipated a significant amount of redevelopment
pressure, and therefore, intentionally recommended a generous transfer formula in order to
incentivize the preservation of historic resources.
Approval Process for Transfers
TDR programs also vary in how the sending and receiving of transfers are reviewed and
approved. Many jurisdictions have a process that requires review by either the City Council or a
board or commission. Table 4 provides some examples of how other local jurisdictions review
and approve transfers.
Table 4. Examples of TDR Processes
Local Jurisdiction TDR Approval Process
Chico, CA Non-administrative: City Council approval
required
Minneapolis, MN Administrative: Review and approval by
Planning Director
Pittsburgh, PA Non-administrative: Historic Preservation
Commission approval required
Providence, RI Non-administrative: Downtown Design
Review Committee approval required
Vancouver, WA Non-administrative: City Council approval
required
West Hollywood, CA Non-administrative: Cultural Heritage
Advisory Board reviews and approves
rehabilitation plan
West Palm Beach, FL Non-administrative: Downtown Advisory
Committee review and approval required
The City’s existing TDR provisions require that the City Council review and approve any transfer
of development rights request. Although several of the example jurisdictions above include the
equivalent of the Historic Preservation Commission in the review, some also require review and
approval by the City Council. Only one jurisdiction, Minneapolis, MN, reviews and approves
transfers administratively.
Administration & Tracking
Staff also looked at how other local jurisdictions administer and track TDR programs. Table 5
outlines some examples from other jurisdictions.
Table 5. Examples of TDR Administration & Tracking
Local Jurisdiction Tracking Mechanism
Chico, CA Documented in adoption of Specific Plan or
Planned Unit Development or executed
through a Development Agreement.
Minneapolis, MN Recorded with the County as a conservation
easement or similar restriction.
Pittsburgh, PA Legal document signed by sending and
receiving site property owners and approved
by the City Attorney. Document outlines
reduction in development rights on sending
site and increase on the receiving site.
Providence, RI Owners of sending and receiving sites
execute a deed or other agreement to be
recorded with the title to both sites.
West Hollywood, CA City staff maintains a list of eligible sending
sites to assist potential receiving site
developers.
October 5, 2018
Page 5
West Palm Beach, FL City staff maintains a registry of development
rights available and transfers. Execution of
City-approved restrictive covenant that
outlines transfer. Covenant recorded against
the sending and receiving sites and added to
City registry.
There are a variety of methods that other jurisdictions employ to administer and track TDR
programs, some are more complex than others. The Riverfront Crossings TDR provisions do not
outline a method for tracking transfers. Currently, planning staff maintains a spreadsheet of
approved transfers and the applicable sending and receiving sites. More formal tracking
mechanisms should be contemplated in a city-wide TDR program and developed in coordination
with the City Attorney’s Office.
Receiving Areas
Table 6 outlines other jurisdictions’ receiving areas.
Table 6. Receiving Areas
Local Jurisdiction Receiving Areas
Chico, CA Applicant must demonstrate that the proposed
receiving site can accommodate the additional
development.
Minneapolis, MN Sites within the downtown that are not a
designated historic structure or eligible for
designation.
Pittsburgh, PA Focused in the downtown.
Providence, RI None specified, but program is focused in the
downtown.
Vancouver, WA Sites with the same zoning district as sending
site.
West Hollywood, CA Medium and high-density commercial zones.
Do not allow transfers into residential zones.
West Palm Beach, FL Specific sites identified in the downtown.
Issues / Constraints
Several cities across the country have adopted TDR programs to preserve historic resources and
some are more effective than others. There are variety of factors that could impact the success
of program, which are outlined below.
Market Potential
At this time staff does not have a market study that examines the market potential for a city-wide
TDR program and completing a market analysis within the timeframe required is not feasible.
Therefore, it is unclear whether a demand for such a program exists.
Lack of Certainty in the Process
Another factor that could impact the effectiveness of a TDR program is how transfers are reviewed
and approved. Programs that allow by-right transfers that are reviewed and approved
administratively provide more certainty for developers. Programs that require a discretionary,
public process provide less certainty and more risk to developers.
Other Bonus Mechanisms
Some of the more effective TDR programs provide few or no other alternatives to achieving
additional development potential. If other mechanisms exist to developers to achieve more
development potential it could impact the effectiveness of a TDR program. Some examples that
the City currently offers in Riverfront Crossings include bonuses for public art, Class A office
space, affordable housing, and energy and environmental stewardship.
October 5, 2018
Page 6
Policy Questions for Council
The most fundamental question for City Council is whether they wish to continue to pursue a city-
wide TDR program to preserve historic resources. If the City Council would like staff to continue
to pursue a city-wide program, staff needs direction on the following policy questions:
1. Should eligible sending sites include existing local historic landmarks or only
future local historic landmarks?
The City has 52 local historic landmarks and the Historic Preservation Commission is
working to identify and designate more local landmarks. In addition, the downtown
includes a number of properties that are eligible for local landmark designation.
Some options include:
a) Eligible sending sites include existing and future local historic landmarks
• Pros:
i. Fair
ii. Consistent with the Riverfront Crossings TDR provisions
• Cons:
i. Depending on the transfer formula and the identified receiving sites
the city may not have enough capacity to receive all of the potential
transfers.
b) Eligible sending sites only include future local historic landmarks
• Pros:
i. May be easier to accommodate the transfer potential
• Cons:
i. Inconsistent with the Riverfront Crossings TDR provisions
2. Should a city-wide TDR ordinance apply the existing transfer calculation formula
that is outlined in the Riverfront Crossings form based code or a new formula?
The transfer formula adopted in Riverfront Crossings was intentionally generous to
incentivize preservation in an area anticipated to be redeveloped. The formula does not
take into consideration existing development on the sending site; and therefore, results in
higher transfer potential. Using the same formula for a city-wide program provides
consistency and clarity between the two programs. It would also make administration and
tracking of the program easier. However, depending on the receiving sites identified there
may be an issue with the capacity available for development on the receiving sites.
Some options include:
a) Keep the existing Riverfront Crossings transfer formula.
• Pros:
i. More generous, could provide more of an incentive to developers
ii. Consistency in administration, application, and simpler to
understand
• Cons:
i. More generous, may not be able to accommodate the amount of
potential transfers
b) Establish a new transfer formula that considers the existing development on the
sending site.
• Pros:
i. May be able to accommodate the potential transfers with a less
generous formula
• Cons:
i. More complex and more difficult to administer
October 5, 2018
Page 7
ii. May want to revisit the Riverfront Crossings transfer formula to
ensure consistency, which would require more time
3. The City already gives bonuses for certain public benefits provided with
development projects. Should preservation of historic resources be treated in a
similar manner or given a higher priority?
Several other programs across the country provide an incentive to transfer development
rights by allowing a density or intensity bonus on the receiving site. This comes in many
forms: height increases, additional floor area, and additional dwelling units. The City’s
zoning ordinance currently includes several bonus provisions.
In the central business district zones (i.e. CB-2, CB-5, and CB-10) bonuses are reviewed
and approved administratively when development projects provide the following types of
public benefits:
• Masonry finish;
• Provision of a theater;
• Funds for street furniture, lighting, and landscaping within the public right-of-way;
• Open space;
• Adaptive reuse of certain historic properties;
• Provision of off-street loading areas that meet specific requirements; and
• Provision of class A office space.11
In the planned high density multi-family residential zone (PRM) bonuses are reviewed and
approved administratively when development projects provide the following types of public
benefits:
• Materials, specifically masonry finish;
• Open Space;
• Rehabilitation of a historically significant building;
• Assisted housing;
• Streetscape amenities;
• Landscaping; and
• Installation of window units that have a height that is at least 1.5 times greater
than the width.12
In addition to the bonuses offered for transferring development rights, height bonuses may
be requested in Riverfront Crossings for several public benefits. Requests to exceed the
base height by two stories are reviewed and approved administratively. Requests to
exceed the base height by more than two stories are reviewed and approved by the City
Council. Bonuses are reviewed for the following public benefits:
• Class A office space;
• Public art;
• Energy efficiency and environmental steward through Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) or a similar program;
• Student housing;
• Hotel space;
• Workforce or affordable housing; and
• Elder housing.13
Some options include:
a) Model a city-wide TDR program on the current bonus provisions offered in the
central business district zones, planned high density multi-family residential zones,
and Riverfront Crossings.
11 For more detail on these bonus provisions please see 14-2C-8.
12 For more detail on these bonus provisions please see 14-2B-7.
13 For more detail on these bonus provisions please see 14-2G-7.
October 5, 2018
Page 8
• Pros:
i. Simpler and easier to administer
• Cons:
i. Bonuses for multiple public benefits may dilute the effectiveness of
preserving historic structures
b) Allow transfers for historic properties to exceed the City’s current bonus provisions
(e.g. offer more height, more density/intensity).
• Pros:
i. Offering more of a bonus may be more of an incentive to preserve
historic resources over bonuses offered for other public benefits
• Cons:
i. Community concerns with additional density/intensity and height
ii. An analysis of the potential impact of an additional bonus would
take time to evaluate
4. What type of process should be established for the review and approval of sending
and receiving transfer of development rights?
The City’s existing TDR provisions require review and approval by the City Council when
a transfer of development rights is proposed. In staff’s review of other TDR programs
several require a non-administrative review and approval; however, some jurisdictions
review and approve development transfers administratively in order to streamline the
process and provide some certainty.
Some options include:
a) Keep the existing Riverfront Crossings review and approval procedure by City
Council.
• Pros:
i. Simpler and consistent with current process
• Cons:
i. Lack of certainty in the approval process
b) Establish a new procedure that allows transfers up to a certain height or
density/intensity to be reviewed and approved administratively. This could be
similar the City’s existing central business district bonus provisions or certain
Riverfront Crossings’ bonus provisions, which are reviewed and approved
administratively. Any transfers beyond an identified threshold would be reviewed
and approved by the City Council.
• Pros:
i. Streamlines the review and approval of transfers
ii. Allows the City Council to review and approve larger transfers that
would potentially have more of an impact
• Cons:
i. Not consistent with current process
5. What areas should a city-wide TDR ordinance identify as receiving areas?
Staff has proposed a few options for potential receiving sites:
• Riverfront Crossings,
• Downtown,
• South Johnson and South Van Buren Streets between Court Street and the
railroad tracks, and
• Sites throughout the city that allow multi-unit development.
Based on the analysis staff conducted there is limited development potential in the
downtown due to the number of historic structures. There is also limited potential for
October 5, 2018
Page 9
redevelopment along South Johnson and South Van Buren Streets since none of the sites
in this area met the threshold needed to be identified as vacant or underutilized.
Furthermore, the Mayor expressed interest in this area as a receiving site only if
accompanied by an urban design plan. Staff could explore the development of an urban
design plan for this area, but completing a plan by the January 2019 is not feasible. The
most capacity exists on multi-unit zoned parcels city-wide. Riverfront Crossings also has
capacity, if the area is rezoned to the Riverfront Crossings zoning designation.
Some options include:
a) Riverfront Crossings, and/or
• Pros:
i. Current receiving area
ii. Master Plan and form-based code encourage higher
densities/intensities
• Cons:
i. May not be able to accommodate the amount of transfer potential
for a city-wide program
b) Downtown, and/or
• Pros:
i. Core of the community with existing infrastructure
ii. Commercial zoning allows for higher densities/intensities
• Cons:
i. Significant amount of historic buildings; and therefore, not able to
accommodate much transfer potential
c) South Johnson and South Van Buren Streets between Court Street and the
railroad tracks, and/or
• Pros:
i. Transfers could provide an incentive for redevelopment
ii. Zoned for higher density housing
• Cons:
i. May require the development of an urban design plan, which would
take time
ii. May not be able to accommodate much transfer potential
d) Sites throughout the city that allow multi-unit development, and/or
• Pros:
i. Provides the most capacity for transfers
• Cons:
i. Could potentially be more impactful and cause concern from
neighbors
ii. Areas with sensitive features (e.g. wetlands, slopes, woodlands)
require a sensitive areas development plan which often leads to
clustering. Transfers to these areas could result in even higher
densities.
e) Other sites or areas
Next Steps & Conclusion
In terms of next steps, staff will prepare a presentation for the September 4, 2018 City Council
work session. In addition to the tasks outlined in the timeline below, staff will need to conduct
some public outreach with property owners and other stakeholders.
Date Task
June – August 2018 Research and analysis
October 5, 2018
Page 10
September 4, 2018 Presentation to Council on research;
recommendation from Council to proceed or
not proceed on ordinance drafting
September– October 2018 Ordinance drafting, if determined by Council
October 11, 2018 Historic Preservation Commission Review &
Discussion
October 18, 2018 Planning & Zoning Commission Review &
Discussion
November 1, 2018 Planning & Zoning Commission Review &
Recommendation
November 20, 2018 City Council (1st reading of ordinance)
December 4, 2019 City Council (2nd & possible 3rd reading of
ordinance)
January 29, 2019 Expiration of 8-month deferral of the local
landmark designation of 410-412 North
Clinton Street
Attachments:
1. Methodology for vacant and underutilized sites
2. Overview of other local jurisdictions’ TDR programs
ATTACHMENT 1.
Methodology for Vacant & Underutilized Sites Analysis
1. Potential Receiving Areas:
a. Riverfront Crossings 1
b. Downtown
c. South Johnson & South Van Buren Streets between Court Street & the Railroad
d. Land zoned for multi-unit development, including commercial zones that allow
multi-family (city-wide)
2. Removed the following from the potential receiving areas:
a. Land within the 100 & 500-year floodplain
b. Local Historic Landmarks, Local Historic Districts, and Conservation Districts
c. Historic properties within the downtown
d. Publicly zoned parcels and other parcels that do not allow multi-unit development
3. Vacant & underutilized sites analysis:
a. Used Assessor data to identify vacant sites
b. Underutilized sites include the following:
i. Improvement-to-land value ratio of less than 1.0, which indicates that the
buildings on the site are less valuable than the land, and therefore, more
likely to be redeveloped
c. Staff also referred to the Riverfront Crossings Master Plan and the areas
identified for potential redevelopment
d. Additional sites were included based on staff’s knowledge of potential future
developments
4. Calculated development potential of vacant & underutilized sites:
a. Commercially-zoned properties: Floor area ratio (FAR)
i. FAR converted to square footage by multiplying the maximum height by
the lot area
b. Residentially-zoned properties: Density (dwelling units / acre)
i. Density converted to maximum allowable dwelling units
c. Applied 80% discount factor assuming that maximum allowable density/intensity
will not be achieved
1 Staff assumed rezoning of all properties to Riverfront Crossings
ATTACHMENT 2.
Overview of other Local Jurisdictions' TDR Programs
City Sending Receiving Base Unit Calculation Method Administration Tracking Approval Steps Notes
Atlanta, GA
Must be either residential sending
areas, a parcel suitable for
greenspace, or a property
designated as a landmark
building/site or as a historical
building or site by the Atlanta
Historic Preservation Ordinance
"Must be zoned for multi-family
residential or mixed uses
provided that residential
component represents at least
50% of the project", must show
future use of the property meets
reqs as outlined in the code
3 different
"development factors"
may be transferred:
floor area ratio, total
open space, and
useable open space
Development potential of the site minus the
landmark's existing development
Property owners submit applications for
designation as sending/ receiving sites/
approval of transfers. Approved by City,
recorded by Bureau of Planning
Istrument recorded in the office of the county
clerk in which the property is located re
owners, persons with interest in property,
prohibitions against future use of property,
etc. If sites are within close proximity of one
another, a joint app can be submitted.
Bureau of Planning has a system for
monitoring severance, ownership,
assignment, and transfer of dev rights.
Applicant proposes sending site/
applies for severance or direct
transfer of dev rights - approved by
council. City ("governing body") must
determine if receiving site is
appropriate for dev and that the
transfer won't cause adverse
environmental/ economic/social
impacts, administers a specal permit
if approved.
Pop. 486,000 Sec. 16-28.023 of:
https://library.municode.com/ga/atlanta/c
odes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIII
COORANDECO_PT16ZO_CH28GESUR
E_S16-28.023TRDERI
Chico, CA
Sites not automatically eligible; in
application for TDR the owner(s)
outline how their site fulfills the
TDR conservation program
outlined by the City
Similarly, applicants must make
"a statement outlining the
availability of support services
and infrastructure necessary for
the dev" of the receiving site.
Essentially the onus is on the
applicants to do the legwork of
determining eligibility, then city
gets to pass judgment
Dwelling Unit
(((# of DU/Gross Acre) allowed in sending
zone)*(sending site's acreage)) - (existing and
proposed # of DU on sending site)
Rolled into PUD/Development Agreement
process
Doesn't appear to be a TDR "bank" entity.
The TDR is recorded within the specific
PUD/Development Agreement
Same process they use for PUDs,
Specific Plans, and Development
Agreements
Pop. 86,000. Chapter 19.34 of the
following link:
http://www.chico.ca.us/government/docu
ments/Title19update.pdf
Dallas, TX
Eligible if: 1) the historic property is
w/in an urban historic district;
2) the historic property is a
contributing structure listed in the
National Register of Historic Places
if it is located in the West End
Historic District; and
3) the historic property has been
rehab'ed w/in the last 5 yrs and the
total value of the rehab exceeds
50% of the property’s pre-rehab
value
Located in the Central Area, CA-
1(A) and CA-2(A) districts Floor Area
Difference between existing floor area of
landmark building and the amt of floor area
allowed by zoning of sending site; transfer
ratio is one-to-one
Planning director approves form for sending
and receiving sites and amt to be
transferred; county deed recorder records
form
Applicant files form with county deed
recorder
Property owner must submit a form
to the Planning Director indicating the
sending site, the receiving site and
the amount of development rights to
be transferred; is checked for
compliance; when receiving site
developer requests a buillding permit
for a project using dev rights, the
recorded transferring form is checked
and building permit is issued
Pop. 1.3 million
http://dallascityhall.com/departments/sus
tainabledevelopment/DCH%20document
s/pdf/building/DevelopmentProgramAppli
cation.pdf
Delray Beach,
FL
"In order to be eligible for TDR, the
resulting use of the 'to be regulated'
property [sending site] must be in a
manner to advance goals,
objectives, & policies of the
Comprehensive Plan through:
(a) Preservation of historic
structures & sites; (b) Obtaining
land for public facilities; (c)
Preservation of designated
conservation areas; (d) Any time
when a voluntary action would aide
in fulfilling a policy/ objective of the
Comprehensive Plan."
Redevelopment areas and height
overlay zones; if a redevelopment
area, the development proposed
for that site must comply with the
redevelopment plan for that area
Residential Dwelling
Units or Floor Area
"Office floor area and residential units can be
interchanged at the rate of 2,000 square feet
of office floor area being equal to one
residential dwelling unit. A conversion from
office to residential, or from residential to
office, may occur at any time up to the
application of the Certificate to a receiver
property"
Applications submitted to City. Local
Planning Agency determines
appropriateness of sending and receiving
sites and certifies it to the City
Commission. Certificate approved by City
Attorney.
Application is processed as a rezoning
request, ordinance outlines the value of the
severed development rights. Certificate of
Development Rights is issued, approved by
City Attorney.
Applicant submits site plan for
proposed sending site indicating amt
of dev that should be accomodated
on that site; sending site is rezoned
(applies to rezone sending site to
Community Facilities, Open Space,
or Conservation Zone; receiving site
may also need to be rezoned, if so, is
processed concurrently); owner
receives certificate which states value
of transferred rights, which can be
sold/transferred to receiving site
Pop. 67,000 Section 4.6.20 of:
https://library.municode.com/fl/delray_be
ach/codes/land_development_regulation
s_?nodeId=CH4ZORE_ART4.6SUDIRE_
S4.6.20TRDERI To date, no TDR
applications have been submitted.
Largo, FL
Any land with significant
archaeological, historical, or
environmental significance, OR
according to a redevelopment plan
approved by Planning Commission
"determined as capable of
accepting dev rights based on the
Comp Plan and the Development
Code" Amount limited by site's
municipal service capacity
Density (units per
acre) or Intensity
(FAR)
As much as the maximum possible density or
intensity of sending site
TDR Certificates. Records both sending
and receiving sites simultaneously.
Contains restrictions as provided in
application or as determined by City
Commission.
Doesn't appear to be a TDR "bank" entity.
The certificate gets recorded with the County.
Certificate applications reviewed by
Planning Commission
Pop. 75,000. Section 4.7 of following
link:
https://www.largo.com/document_center/
Permits%20&%20Planning/Planning/CD
C/Adopted_2018_CDC.pdf
Los Angeles,
CA
any parcels within the Central
Business District Redevelopment
Project Area
any parcels within the Central
Business District Redevelopment
Project Area
Floor Area Ratio, 3:1
or 6:1 depending on
the subarea in which
the site is located
Based on floor area ratio -- 3:1 or 6:1
depending on the subarea in which the site is
located
Redevelopment Agency, City Planning
Commission, LA City Council and Mayor
must all individually consider whether an
application for TFAR (Transfer of Floor
Area Rights) meets all conditions.
Commission offically approves transfer
following public hearing.
Filed with City Clerk.
Redevelopment Agency must
consider whether an app for TFAR
meets all 6 conditions--if yes, they
approve app. City Planning
Commission, LA City Council, &
Mayor all repeat this process.
Director issues a report to Cimission
recommending approval/ approval w
conditions/ disapproval of req for
Transfer.
Pop. 4.03 million
Article 4.5:
http://library.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll
/California/lapz/municipalcodechapteripl
anningandzoningco/chapterigeneralprovi
sionsandzoning/article45transferoffloorar
earights-
centr?f=templates$fn=default.htm$3.0$vi
d=amlegal:lapz_ca$anc=JD_C1A4.5
"Developers are required to pay a Public
Benefit Payment on transfers in order to
fund public open space, affordable
housing, cultural/public facilities, historic
preservation and public transportation
improvements."
Eligibility Mechanics
Madison, GA
Historical sending sites must be
any landmark listed in the
Greenprint and registered as a
Landmark by the Madison Historic
Preservation Commission. (other
non-historical sending sites apply
to the TDR program as well)
"Receiving parcels must meet all
three of the following criteria:
1) ID-ed as Traditional
Neighborhood Residential or
Mixed-Use Residential/
Commercial on Future Land Use
Map;
2) W/n the “higher density”
portions of the W. Washington
Gateway; and
3) W/in 2000 ft of a neighborhood
center, w/in 1500 ft of a
neighborhood park and w/in 1500
ft of an arterial street or state
highway."
Density
"calculated on basis of baseline density of the
sending parcel, less any existing dwelling
units. For parcels w/in residential zoning
districts, the baseline density shall be the
gross acreage of the parcel divided by the min
lot area of the zoning district. For non-
residential zoning districts, baseline density
shall be calculated at four units per acre. The
area of a parcel with fractional acreage will be
rounded down to the nearest 1/4 acre"
Planning department approves TDRs from
sending sites, administers certificates. Land
Bank Board has influence in determining
TDR value, holds TDRs until purchase by a
receiving site owner. Mayor and city council
must review receiving site at public
meeting.
Land Bank can buy either TDRs or property
in fee simple; may determine TDR value
using negotiation, a competitive bid process,
or any other method deemed fair and
equtiable by the Bank Board. Applications for
both receiving and sending sites are recorded
with the County Court Clerk. TDR Certificates
are recorded in the TDR Register.
Owner of qualifying sending site must
submit a preliminary app, followed by
a certification app, to the planning
dept. Receiving site owner must
apply; dept schedules application for
mayor and council review at public
meeting. Upon approval, planning
dept. records the transfer.
Pop. 4,000 Article III:
https://library.municode.com/ga/madison
/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTII
COOR_CH54PLDE_ARTIIITRDERI_S54-
54TRDERIPR
Minneapolis,
MN
Lots with locally designated or
eligible historic structures within
specific districts, as determined by
the City's Heritage Preservation
Commission.
Doesn't really have an explicit
criteria, other than it's a site
within specified downtown
districts and the Planning
Director approves of the transfer
GFA
(Maximum GFA permitted by sending site's
zone) - (GFA of existing development on
sending site) however, receiving site is capped
to 30% above its zone's maximum allowable
GFA
Application for TDR submitted, if approved
it's recorded with the County in the form of
a "conservation easement or similar
restriction acceptable to the city," specifying
amount of floor area transferred and
involved parcels.
Doesn't appear to be a TDR "bank" entity.
The certificate gets recorded with the County.
Administrative-level review of TDR
applications by Planning Director.
Decision is final, can appeal denials
through P&Z commish. Building
permit not granted for receiving site
until sending site's historic structure
has been rehabbed and approved by
HPC
Pop. 415,000. Specifically designed for
Historic Pres. Can transfer to up to four
different receiving sites from one sending
site. Link:
https://library.municode.com/mn/minnea
polis/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId
=MICOOR_TIT20ZOCO_CH549DODI_A
RTIIITRDERI_549.270DE
Nashville, TN
Parcels within two designated
historic zoning districts or Historic
Landmark Districts (all designated
in 2007 with the Downtown
Community Plan Update)
ordinance identifies five specific
areas within the downtown as
receiving sites
Floor Area
maximum floor area allowed by the base
zoning minus the floor area of the landmark
building
owner of sending site records an easement
that permanently precludes additional
development on the site; developers may
purchase or be donated dev rights (if owned
by the City or State or a non-profit
preservation org, rights can only be
donated); Planning dept receives app and
approves it.
Conveyances of sending site's rights is put in
writing in an instrument that is then signed by
owner, submitted to planning dept with
approval, then recorded in the office of the
register of deeds.
Owners of sending sites and
receiving sites must apply for transfer
of development rights with the
planning dept. Planning dept. is in
charge of approval. TDRs are
allocated to receiving property only
once the rights are noticed in writing
in an instrument signed by owner of
receiving site that is submitted to the
planning dept.
Pop. 690,000
https://www.nashville.gov/mc/ordinances
/term_2003_2007/bl2007_1369.htm
New Orleans,
LA
"places, buildings or structures in
any Central Business District
(CBD) zone that are either
designated as historic landmarks
or recognized as having special
historic, community or aesthetic
value"; they cannot be owned by
the City, State, or Federal
Government
properties in CBD-1, CBD-2 or
CBD-2B districts; properties in
CBD-9 zone can receive dev
rights transferred from the CBD-8
zone; projects which incorporate
TDRs may exceed by 10% the
by-right density, in addition to
bonus density increases, allowed
on the receiving site by baseline
zoning
Floor Area
difference between the maximum floor area
allowed by the zoning code, without bonus
density increases, and the actual floor area of
the existing building to be preserved
Applications are approved or denied by the
Planning Commission following a public
hearing; if approved, recommendation for
approval is forwarded to the City Council;
Council may approve, modify, or deny.
to finalize transfer, applicants must file with
the City both an instrument of transfer and a
notice of restrictions on the sending site with
the deeds of both the sending and receiving
sites
owners of both the sending and
receiving sites must submit an
application to restrict development
rights on the sending site and
increase density on the receiving site;
goes through public hearings for
Planning Comission and City Council
Pop. 391,000 Section 16.8 of former
code -- is no longer in effect.
https://www.nola.gov/city-
planning/czo/former-comprehensive-
zoning-ordinance/former-new-orleans,-la-
zoning-thru-june-20,-2014/
Palo Alto, CA
They designate certain buildings
(Historic Category 1 or 2). TDR
granted only upon approved
applications with specific
rehabilitation plans for those
buildings.
Located in certain districts. Not a
historic site. Located >= 150 ft
from residentially zoned property
(except in MU zones or OPDs).
Other stipulations regarding sites
within their "downtown parking
assessment district." Limits on
FAR within certain subdistricts as
well. Total additional floor area
capped at a max of 10,000 sf,
unless more restrictive FAR caps
for that subdistrict exist.
Floor Area
For Historic Rehab Buildings: "allowed to
increase its floor area by 2,500 square feet or
25% of exisiting building, whichever is greater,
without having this increase count toward the
FAR." Certain subdistricts have more
restrictive FAR limits. Also stipulates that,
"This bonus area must be fully parked."
Functions under their Floor Area Bonus
process. Site owner of approved historic
pres F.A.B. must enter into an
"unsubordinated protective covenant
running with the land in favor of the city"
assuring the property will be rehabbed
according to applicable standards.
"recorded document, signed by the transferor
and transferee… in a form designed to run
with the land and satisfactory to the city
attorney… identify[ing] the sender site and
the amount of floor area transferred."
Application for "major ARB review of
the project proposed for the receiver
site" filed, including historic rehab
plan, specific amount of dev rights
planned to be transferred, and
identification of sender & receiver
sites. Rehab plan reviewed by HPC.
Upon completion, Planning Director
issues written determination of
sending site's bonus eligibility.
Pop. 67,000. City Code states: "The city
does not guarantee that at all times in
the future there will be sufficient elgibile
receiver sites to receive such TDRs."
Chapter 18.18 at following link:
http://library.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll
/California/paloalto_ca/paloaltomunicipal
code?f=templates$fn=default.htm$3.0$vi
d=amlegal:paloalto_ca
Park City, UT
Three sending areas (Sending
Treasure Hill, Sending Old Town,
and Sending Historic District);
designed to preserve open space,
environmental areas/ sensitive
lands, structures of aesthetic/
architectural/ historical
significance. All vacant lots in the
Park City Historic Sites Inventory
are elligible.
All properties within the TDR-
Receiving overlay zone are
eligible to receive Transfer
Development Credits.
Density
Allocation ratios vary depending on sending
area. 1 TDC = 1,000 sq ft of bonus
commercial floor area or 2,000 sq ft of bonus
residential floor area.
Planning Director determines the number of
development credits allowed to a sending
site. Sale/ transfer of credits is conducted
between transferer and transferee or their
legal representatives, to be recorded by
Planning Director or designee.
"Each time credits are transferred from a
sending site, a conservation easement or
deed restriction is recorded." A Development
Credit Certificate must be recorded in the
county's property records when credits are
transferred/sold.
Sending site property owners can
request a Development Credit
determination letter from the Park
City Planning director. Those credits
may only be sold/ conveyed/
tranferred by the owner to the
transferee and then must be reissued
in the transferee's name.
Pop. 8,300 Ch. 15-2.24 of:
https://parkcity.municipalcodeonline.com
/book?type=ordinances#name=15-
2.24_Transfer_Of_Development_Rights_
(TDR)_Overlay_Zone
Pasadena, CA Can be anywhere within the West
Gateway Specific Plan area.
Can be anywhere within the West
Gateway Specific Plan area.Density
Residential density can be converted to non-
residential floor area and vice versa.
Conversion Formula. One dwelling unit shall
be equivalent to 850 square feet of non-
residential development and 850 square feet
of nonresidential development shall be
equivalent to one dwelling unit.
Any development rights transferred from a
donor site shall be deducted from the
additional density otherwise allowed on the
parcel by this Section.
With proper written consent of sending and
receiving site owners, any property owner
within the area may transfer.
Owner of sending site records a written
covenant documenting the transfer, approved
by City Attorney. "Department maintains
records of all transfers and the current
density allocations, if any, of all the
properties within the specific plan area."
Transfer can be approved by the
Zoning Administrator as long as the
receiving site project meets
regulations.
Pop. "Intended to propote enhancement
of the.. City's symbolic western gateway
and to facilitate preservation of historic
structures and beloved open spaces"
Chapter 17.36.060.B :
https://library.municode.com/ca/pasaden
a/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TI
T17_ZONING_CODE_ART3SPPLST_C
H17.36WEGASPPL_17.36.060WGGED
EST
Pittsburgh, PA
Lots containing City-designated
historic structures (which can be
designated as such without the
consent of the property owner) or
not-for-profit performing arts
facilities in two specific districts,
labeled C5 and C6.
Located in C5 & C6 districts, can
be commercial or residential.
Commerical: floor area rights
from sending sites in one district
can only be transferred to zoning
lots in the same district.
Residential: rights can be
transferred from any other zoning
lot in C5 & C6 districts.
Floor Area
1:1 transfer ratio: "the amount of development
available for transfer is the difference between
the existing amount of development on the
sending site and the maximum amount of
development which would be allowed on that
sending site under the zoning code". If sending
& receiving sites are adjacent, max amt of
development allowed on the receiving can be
2x the amt allowed by the zoning code. If not
adjacent, development can only be increased
by 20% more than density allowed by base
zoning.
The City's Historic Review Commission
approves the transfer. City Solicitor
approves a legal document signed by the
parties concerned, which is filed with the
application for occupancy permit.
Must be a "plan and program for
rehabilitation… and maintenance" of the
structure for at least 40 years beyond the
transfer. Must also be a legal document
signed by involved parties and approved by
the City Solicitor. "The department, bureau,
and all other affected City departments shall
note on appropriate records the reduction in
development rights on the sending lot and
the increase...on the receiving lot"
Must be approved by the City's
Historic Review Commission. Prior to
approval, "there shall exist a plan and
program for rehabilitation...and for
continuing maintenance of the
Historic Structure or Performing Arts
Facility…for not less than 40 years."
Pop. 306,000. Program has only been
used about 3 times; it "has not been of
great interest to potential developers…
because the pace of commercial
development has not generated enough
demand to justify the acquisition of
additional development capacity [and]
base zoning allows millions of sq ft of
future development without the need for
discretionary approvals. Consequently,
Pittsburgh developers have little
motivation to use the TDR ordinance."
(SmartPreservation)
Providence, RI
"Buildings listed in the National
Register of Historic Places for
which the applicant donates a
preservation restriction whose
purpose is the preservation of the
exterior of the building"
Structures within the Downcity
District; "shall be restored and
maintained as required by the
downtown design review
committee"
Building height
Difference between height of landmark and
max height allowed to sending site under
current zoning; height of receiving site cannot
exceed 1.6x the max height or 300 ft,
whichever is less.
Downcity Design Review Committee (DRC),
created to "encourage development
compatible with historical character while
creating a 24-hr ped-friendly downtown that
promotes art, entertainment and housing",
reviews all proposed improvements within
the district, including TDR.
"fee owners of sending & receiving lots
execute an agreement to be recorded with
the title to both lots… , for a term that equals
or exceeds the life of the project of the
receiving lot"; any changes to plan must be
approved through a new application
Application must be approved by the
Downcity Design Review Committee
at a public hearing.
Pop. 180,000 Chap. 27, Article 6.03,
Section G of following link:
https://library.municode.com/ri/providenc
e/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PT
IICOOR_CH27ZO_ART6DODI_603DEIN
San Diego, CA
Civic San Diego TDR Program (a
nonprofit org owned by the City)
"To qualify, must contain
designated historical resources and
be located on same block as
receiving site or be the object of a
study, approved by the Civic San
Diego President, verifying that a
transfer of floor area is needed to
rinance rehab and preservation of
landmark."
Must be on the same block as the
sending site. Floor Area
determined by amt of development allowed by
the sending site's max base FAR; may also be
determined on a case-by-case basis based on
needed rehab and preservation costs
Transfer is approved by Civic San Diego
President; Civic San Diego is a non-profit
org owned by the City of San Diego tasked
with promoting economic development in
neighborhoods throughout the city,
including the downtown
documented by recorded certificates of
transfer; "City can acquire, bank, and hold
transferred floor area prior to transfer to a
receiving site"
sending site owners must enter into a
Preservation, Restoration, and
Maintenance Agreement that
commits them to rehab the strucutre
& reconstruct it if destroyed; CSD
President approves transfer
Pop. 1.41 million Has not been used
since 2014
http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode/Muni
CodeChapter15/Ch15Art06Division03.pd
f
"
Golden Hill TDR Program must
be within Golden Hill Planned
District; three types of eligible
historical properties: "a property
designated as a historical site by
the Historical Site Board; a
contributing structure within the
Historic District; or a structure
designated historically/architec-
turally significant in a survey
approved by the Historic Site
Board"; property owner also must
grand a facade easement to the
City
properties located within 5
subareas of the district Floor Area
transfer difference between the floor area of
the landmark and the floor area that would be
permitted under the density limits of the
zoning code; transferred rights allowed a
project to exceed the base density allowed by
code by 25%
transfers registered with Planning Dept
a purchaser of development rights had to
register all transfers with the City Planning
Department
City Planning Dept has to approve
transfers
Pop. 1.41 million TDR provisions
removed from ordinance in Golden Hill
Planned District in 1989 - problems:
density allowed by code usually wasn't
much greater than the density of the
historic structures from which rights were
transferred; owners of potential receiving
sites had little incentive to buy additional
density because they could achieve the
density they wanted under the limits
imposed by the code; surrounding
neighborhoods were resistent to
additional development
St. Petersburg,
FL
"Designated landmarks or
landmark sites other than
contributing structures in a historic
district and any gov't owned
property"; exterior must be
preserved and rehabilitated in
accordance with the Sec of the
Interior's Standards for
Preservation and Rehabilitation
properties in the downtown center
and corridor commercial
suburban districts
Floor Area
landmark building: the greater of the following -
10x the floor area of the landmark or the diff
between the gross flor area of the structure
and the max floor area allowed by zoning
landmark site: transferable floor area is 5x the
landmark site's size after deducting any lot
area occupied by a landmark building
"for each sq ft of development credit
transferred, $.50 must be given to the City's
historic preservation grant program, minus
any funds spent on required restoration or
rehab work"
Planning Dept (POD) approves
establishment and transfer of TDR credits.
City Attorney approves owner's declaration
of covenants and restrictions
A registry of TDR credit certificates is kept by
the Planning Dept. At time of transfer, owner
records a declaration of covenants and
restrictions which is then approved by the
City Attorney.
Application to establish TDR credits
approved by the POD, property must
be historically designated before
credits are issued, certificate of TDR
credits is administered upon approval
by POD, owner of credits who wants
to use them to transfer
density/intensity must apply; owner of
receiving site must have the approval
of a site plan before credits are
transferred
Pop. 261,000 16.70.040.1.17 of
following link:
https://library.municode.com/fl/st._peters
burg/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId
=PTIISTPECO_CH16LADERE_S16.70A
PPR_16.70.040PLZODE_16.70.040.1.17
TRDERIHI
Vancouver, WA
Designated historic landmark in
two Conservation Areas, created
with the adoption of a Historic
Preservation Overlay District
ordinance; any structure in the
Overlay District that is listed in the
State or National Registers of
Historic Places or designated on a
local register is eligible.
Any other site in the same zoning
district, as long as it will not
create a hazard to low-flying
aircraft.
Floor Area Floor area allowable on the sending site minus
the actual floor area of the sending site.
City Council makes record of covenant with
owner of the historic property/ sending site.
Owner of the historic property must record a
covenant with the City Council that the
historic property will be maintained in its
historic condition. Unclear if the covenant
addresses the transfer or simply the
preservation of the structure.
Covenant must be approved by City
Council.
Pop. 175,000 Section 20.510.050:
https://www.cityofvancouver.us/sites/def
ault/files/fileattachments/vmc/titles_chap
ters/20.510.pdf Very little specific
information is given.
Warrington, PA
Owners must petition to qualify
their land as sending sites through
conditional use permit process,
unless the site is within the
Residential-Agricultural zone, in
which case it would automatically
qualify. "Site can only be approved
if it meets four criteria including
consitency with the Comprehensive
Plan and promotion of public
welfare."
Sites in zones that permit higher-
density residential, office, and
industrial uses
Land Area
"TDR allocation varies depending on sending
site zoning: for each net acre of sending site
land, owners can receive 0.65 DUs in the RA
zone, 1.1 in the R-1, 1 DU in the R-1-C, 2 DUs
in the R-2 or R2-I and 1.9 DUs in the R-3. In
addition to this base allocation, sending sites
can receiving incentive bonuses of 15% in the
RA or 10% in other districts and additional
bonuses for sites with historic or natural
resource significance. RA sites must be at
least five acres to qualify."
Planning Commission and Township Board
of Supervisors, who approve the transfers,
are advised by the TDR Review Board.
Mention of where TDRs are recorded does
not appear in the code.
If not in the RA district, the Board of
Supervisors must approve the
transfer, considering the
recommendations of the Planning
Department or Planning Comission
and the TDR Review Boards.
Pop. 24,000 Program aims to
preserve environmental space and
historically significant sites.
https://www.ecode360.com/13867984?hi
ghlight=develop,developed,developer,de
velopers,development,development
developed,development
right,development
rights,developments,develops,right,rights
West
Hollywood, CA
"properties containing City-
designated cultural resources
which have less density than the
max allowed by the zoning code"
any properties zoned for
medium/high-density commercial
use which are not cultural
resources; cannot be transferred
into residential zones
Density
Difference between the max permitted
development and the existing number of
dwelling units; for nonresidential cultural
resources, it is the difference between the max
code-permitted floor area and the actual floor
area of the designated building
City's Cultural Hertiage Advisory Board
approves a rehabilitation plan if needed on
a sending site; rehab must be completed
before transfer. Council has established
criteria upon which transfers shall be
conditioned.
City allows developers to purchase an option
on TDRs, which must be recorded prior to
adoption of receiving site project (arranged
this way because City was concerned that
developers would be reluctant to use the
program if they had to buy rights before
transfer was approved).
Rights can be purchased by anyone;
do not have to be earmarked for a
particular receiving site. Cultural
Heritage Advisory Board approves
rehab plan if necessary. Council has
criteria that it follows when approving
a transfer.
Pop. 37,000 "Owner of designated
cultural resource must comply w
restoration requirements est. by the
Cultural Hertiage Advisory Board to
receive full funds from a sale of dev
rights. If sending site needs rehab,
owner initially receives only 25% of TDR
sale proceeds...remaining 75% is placed
in an escrow account for use in the
rehabn of the sending site." According to
Smart Preservation, no transfers have
occurred yet." 19.58.150.F of
http://qcode.us/codes/westhollywood/vie
w.php?topic=19-19_4-
19_58&showAll=1&frames=off
Could not find a copy of the specific
criteria that appear in the Transfer of
Development Rights Program.
West Palm
Beach, FL
Historic properties, landmarks
(local or national register status),
Clematis St. conservation district,
urban open space, all as depicted
in the City's code. Historic sites &
landmarks must have completed
renovation acc. to code and must
be issued a certificate of
occupancy. "As an added incentive
for historic landmark designation,
sites with historic landmark status
are eligible for additional city-
owned TDRs in an amount
equivalent to the site's existing
development capacity"
"must comply with the TDR map
showing where TDR can be used
to reach an eight-, ten- and 20-
story maximum," as depicted in
the City zoning code
Floor area
transferable floor area is determined by
multiplying lot area by allowable number of
floors (and deducting the floor area of the
existing strucutre in the case of a historic
landmark sending site)
Planning director establishes eligibility,
DAC approves transfer
TDR registry maintained by city that records
total amt of DRs available on a site, and the
date & amount of any transfer that occurs;
city-approved restrictive covenant is executed
and recorded in public records (TDR
restrictive covenant), which describes the
adjusted DRs of sending and receiving sites;
"bank entity": TDRs may be acquired from a
sending site and held for an undetermined
amt of time until a suitable receiving site is
found
Planning director est. eligibility of
sending site, letter (w estimate of
DRs available for transfer from
sending) of availablilty may be issued
by planning dept upon request; all
transfers are subject to approval of
the Downtown Action Committee
(DAC), after which a certificate of
transfer is issued (recorded in TDR
registry)
Pop. 108,000 Sec. 94-132
of:
https://library.municode.com/fl/west_pal
m_beach/codes/code_of_ordinances?no
deId=PTIICOOR_CH94ZOLADERE_AR
TIVDOMAPLURRE_S94-132TRDERIPR
10/12/2018
1
City of Iowa City
City Council Work Session
September 4, 2018
Background
•May 29:
•Council considered local landmark designation of 410‐412 N.
Clinton Street
•Deferred to January 2019 and directed staff to explore the creation
of a city‐wide TDR program
•August 7:
•Council discussed initial memo on TDR at work session
•September 4:
•Direction from City Council on key policy questions
September 4 – Council Work Session Goals
•Direction from Council on the following:
•Eligible sending sites
•Transfer formula
•Priority of preserving historic resources compared to other public benefits
•Review and approval process for transfers
•Eligible receiving sites
Staff Goals of a City‐wide TDR Program
•Fair
•Legally‐sound
•Easy to administer
•Simple for developers and members of the public to understand
•Effective program that preserves historic resources
•Consistent with comprehensive plan
10/12/2018
2
Transfer of Development Rights
•Incentivize protection of historic
resources
•Property owners can sell/
transfer development rights
from historic resource (sending
site)
•Development rights applied to
another site where development
can occur at a higher density
(receiving site)
TDR Example –Tate Arms, 916 S. Dubuque St.
RFC Transfer Formula
•No. of stories allowed on sending
site (4)
X
Area of sending site (8,700 sq. ft.)
=
Development Rights Available for
Transfer (34,800 sq. ft.)
Total Dev. Rights: 34,800 sq. ft.
Sending Site: Tate Arms, 914 S. Dubuque St.
TDR Example –Tate Arms, 916 S. Dubuque St.
Total Dev. Rights: 34,800 sq. ft.
Dev. Rights Remaining: 27,400 sq. ft.
Dev. Rights Transferred: 7,400 sq. ft.
34,800 sq. ft.
7,400 sq. ft.
27,400 sq. ft.
Sending Site: Tate Arms, 914 S. Dubuque St.Receiving Site: 912 S. Dubuque St.
Summary of Existing Local Historic Landmarks
No. of Local Historic
Landmarks
Downtown 8
Dubuque / Linn Street Area 2
Northside 15
Goosetown 3
College Hill 6
Longfellow 1
Manville Heights 2
Kirkwood 2
Westside 4
Near Southside 6
Other 3
Total 52
10/12/2018
3
Research & Analysis
Sending Sites
Sending Sites Development Transfer
Potential (square feet)
Local Landmarks Only 4,367,068
Local Landmarks &
National Landmarks
5,368,997
•Only analyzed existing local and
national landmarks
•Several other buildings eligible for
local landmark designation
•HPC proactively identifying sites to
locally landmark
•Used the RFC Transfer Formula:
No. of stories
X
Area of sending site
=
Development Transfer
Potential
Research & Analysis
Receiving Sites
Potential
Receiving Areas
Development
Potential
(square feet)
Development
Potential
(dwelling units)
Riverfront Crossings 2,522,313 -
Downtown 242,471 -
South Johnson &
South Van Buren
Area
--
Citywide – multi-unit
sites 5,389,525 845
TOTAL 8,154,309 845
•Identified vacant and
underutilized sites
•Removed sites within
floodplains, sites with
historic buildings, publicly
zoned land
10/12/2018
4
Research & Analysis
Summary of Sending & Receiving Sites Analysis
•Significant amount of transfer potential – will increase as more
properties are locally landmarked
•Depending on receiving sites identified it may be difficult to
accommodate transfer potential
Research & Analysis
Other Local Jurisdictions’ Program
•Transfer Formulas:
•Consider existing development on sending site
•Typical formula = Max allowable density/intensity on sending site Less Existing
density/intensity on sending site
•Incorporate a receiving site bonus above that allows development beyond
plan/zoning
•In comparison, the RFC transfer does not consider existing development
Research & Analysis
Other Local Jurisdictions’ Program
•Approval Process for Transfers:
•Many cities require some type of a non‐administrative review
•Some cities approve transfers administratively
10/12/2018
5
Research & Analysis
Other Local Jurisdictions’ Program
•Administration & Tracking:
•Variety of methods:
•Documented through a PUD or Specific/Master Plan
•Executed through a development agreement
•Recorded with the County as a conservation easement
•Legal documents signed by property owners & City Attorney
•Tracking
•City staff maintained registries and databases of possible receiving sites, eligible sites,
capacity of these sites
Research & Analysis
Other Local Jurisdictions’ Program – Approval Process
•Receiving Areas:
•Several programs focus receiving sites in the core of the
community/downtown
•Explicitly state that historic resources are not eligible as receiving sites
•Place burden on the applicant to demonstrate the appropriateness of a
potential receiving site
•Commercial zones only –no transfers allows to residential zones
Issues/Constraints
•Market Potential:
•No market study
•Lack of Certainty in the Process:
•Non‐administrative review of transfer (e.g. P&Z, City Council, etc.) provides
less certainty
•Administrative review of transfer (i.e. staff‐level) provides more certainty
•Other Bonus Mechanisms:
•City currently offers bonuses for other public benefits
•Uncertain how a city‐wide TDR policy would compare to other bonuses
Policy Questions for City Council
1. Should eligible
sending sites include
existing local historic
landmarks or only
future local historic
landmarks?
Pros Cons
Fair May not have adequate capacity
in receiving areas
Consistent with RFC
TDR provisions
Option a. Eligible sending sites include existing
& future local historic landmarks.
Option b. Eligible sending sites only include
future local historic landmarks.
Pros Cons
May be easier to
accommodate
transfers
Inconsistent with RFC TDR
provisions
10/12/2018
6
Policy Questions for City Council
2. Should a city‐wide
TDR ordinance apply
the existing transfer
calculation formula
that is outlined in
RFC or a new
formula?
Pros Cons
More generous, more
of an incentive
More generous, may not be able
to accommodate transfers
Consistency in
administration and
simpler to understand
Option a. Keep the existing RFC transfer
formula.
Option b. Establish a new transfer formula that
considers existing development.
Pros Cons
May be easier to
accommodate
transfers
More complex & more difficult to
administer
May want to revisit RFC transfer
formula to ensure consistency
Policy Questions for City Council
3. The City already
gives bonuses for
certain public
benefits provided
with development
projects. Should
preservation of
historic resources be
treated in a similar
manner or given
higher priority?
Pros Cons
Simpler & easier to
administer
Bonuses for multiple public
benefits may dilute the
effectiveness of preserving
historic structures
Option a. Model a city‐wide TDR program on
the current bonus provisions.
Option b. Allow transfer for historic properties
to exceed the City’s current bonus provisions
(e.g. offer more height, more density/intensity?
Pros Cons
More of an incentive
for preservation
Community concerns with
additional height &
density/intensity
An analysis of the potential
impact would take time to
evaluate
Policy Questions for City Council
4. What type of
process should be
established for the
review and approval
of sending and
receiving transfer of
development rights?
Pros Cons
Simpler & consistent
with current process
Lack of certainty in the approval
process
Option a. Keep the existing Riverfront Crossings
review and approval procedure by the City Council.
Option b. Establish a new procedure that allows
transfer up to a certain level to be approved
administratively. Any transfers beyond an identified
threshold would be reviewed by City Council.
Pros Cons
Streamline the review
& approval of transfers
Not consistent with current RFC
process
Allows the Council to
review & approve
larger transfers
Policy Questions for City Council
5. What areas should a
city‐wide TDR
ordinance identify
as receiving sites?
Pros Cons
Current receiving area
May not be able to
accommodate the transfer
potential
Master Plan & FBC
encourage higher
densities
Option a. Riverfront Crossings and/or
Option b. Downtown and/or
Pros Cons
Core of the community Significant number of historic
resources
Current zoning allows
for higher
densities/intensities
May not be able to
accommodate transfer potential
10/12/2018
7
Policy Questions for City Council
5. What areas should a
city‐wide TDR
ordinance identify
as receiving sites?
Pros Cons
Transfer could provide
an incentive for
redevelopment
May require the development of
an urban design plan, which
would take time
Zoned for higher
density housing
May not be able to
accommodate transfer potential
Option c. South Johnson / Van Buren area and/or
Option d. Multi‐unit sites throughout the city and/or
Pros Cons
Provides the most
capacity for transfers
Could potentially be more
impactful & cause concern from
neighbors
Areas with sensitive features
could result in higher densities
than currently allowed through
clustering
Option e. Other sites or areas
Summary of Policy Questions Summary of Options
1. Eligible sending sites?
a. Existing & future Local Landmarks
• Fair & Consistent / May not have adequate receiving site capacity
b. Only future Local Landmarks
• May be easier to accommodate transfers / Inconsistent with current process
2. Transfer formula?
a. RFC transfer formula
• More generous & consistency in administration; easier to understand
• May not have adequate receiving site capacity
b. New transfer formula
• May be easier to accommodate transfers / More complex & difficult to administer
3. Bonuses & Priority of preserving
historic resources compared to other
public benefits?
a. Current bonus provisions
• Simpler & easier / May dilute effectiveness of preserving historic resources
b. Exceed current bonus provisions
• More of an incentive / Community concerns & unknown impacts
4. Review & approval process for
transfers?
a. Existing RFC process (i.e. approval by City Council)
• Simpler & consistent / Lack of certainty in approvals
b. New process
• Streamline the review & allow Council review for larger transfers
• Not consistent with current RFC process
5. Eligible receiving sites?
a. RFC
b. Downtown and/or
c. South Johnson / Van Buren area and/or
d. Multi-unit sites throughout the city and/or
e. Other sites
Timeline
Date Task
June-August 2018 Research and analysis
September 4, 2018 Presentation to Council on research; recommendation from Council to
proceed or not proceed on ordinance drafting
September – October 2018 Ordinance drafting; if determined by Council
October 11, 2018 Historic Preservation Commission Review & Discussion
October 18, 2018 Planning & Zoning Commission Review & Discussion
November 20, 2018 City Council (1
st reading of ordinance)
December 4, 2018 City Council (2
nd & possible 3rd reading of ordinance)
January 29, 2019 Expiration of 8-month deferral of the local landmark designation of 410-412
North Clinton Street
DRAFT
Planning & Zoning Commission
October 18, 2018
1
Citywide Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance
Amend 14-2A-7, Special Provisions, by adding the following subsection:
E. Transfer of Development Rights
1. Purpose:
The transfer of development rights and corresponding height and density bonuses provide an
incentive for the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic properties.
2. Sending Sites Requirements:
a. The sending site must have a base zoning designation of “Single-Family Residential” per
14-2A, “Multi-Family Residential” per 14-2B, or “Commercial” per 14-2C, of this title.
b. Sending sites must be designated as either an Iowa City historic landmark or listed as a
contributing structure in an Iowa City historic district in accordance with 14-3B-1,
“Historic District Overlay Zone”, of this title, after January 1, 2018.
c. All historic buildings and structures on the sending site must be preserved against
decay, deterioration, and kept free from structural defects by the owner or such person,
persons, or entities who may have custody or control thereof, according to the provisions
of section 14-3B-7, "Prevention Of Demolition By Neglect", of this title.
4. Eligible Receiving Sites:
1. A site is eligible to be a receiving site if it is:
a. Located within a Riverfront Crossing zone district and the sending site is located outside
of the Riverfront Crossings district as identified in 14-2G-2 “Regulating Plan” of this title;
or
b. Located within a zone district that allows multi-family dwellings either as a permitted or
provisional use according to Table 2B-1 “Principal Uses Allowed in Multi-Family
Residential Zones” and Table 2C-1 “Principal Uses Allowed in Commercial Zones”, of
this title.
2. Properties designated as Iowa City historic landmarks, located within Iowa City historic
districts, and listed in the National Register of Historic Places are not eligible as receiving
sites.
5. Transfer of Development Rights:
a. Transfer requests shall either be for a height bonus or a density bonus using the
following formulas:
(1) Difference between the maximum allowable height of the sending site and the
existing height of the historic structure. In no case shall the transfer be less than 12
DRAFT
Planning & Zoning Commission
October 18, 2018
2
feet even if the difference between the maximum allowable height and the existing
height is less than 12 feet; or
(2) Difference between the maximum number of dwelling units allowed on the sending
site based on the underlying zoning designation at the time of the Historic District
Overlay (OHD) zoning designation and the existing number of dwelling units on the
sending site.
b. Transfers requests may exceed either the height or density on the receiving site with the
following limitations:
(1) No height bonus transfer request to a receiving site located outside of the Riverfront
Crossings district shall exceed 40 feet above the maximum height allowed on the
receiving site.
(2) No height bonus transfer request to a receiving site located in the Riverfront
Crossings district shall exceed the height bonus maximums outlined in 14-2G-7G-1d
of this title.
(3) No height bonus transfer request to a receiving site located adjacent to an existing
single-family home shall exceed two stories above the height of the existing single-
family home.
6. Transfer of Development Rights Review Process:
a. Requests for transfer of development rights shall be subject to the Level II design review
process according to 14-8B-3, of this title.
b. In addition to the requirements outlined in 14-8B-3 of this title, applicants requesting a
transfer of development rights must provide the following information:
a. The proposed sending site and the amount of transfer potential,
b. The proposed receiving site,
c. The amount of height bonus or density bonus requested,
d. A concept plan and elevations of the proposed project to utilize the transfer on
the receiving site, and
e. Any other information required per the application form.
7. Transfer of Development Rights Tracking:
a. The Neighborhood and Development Services Department staff shall maintain a list of
transfers requested and approved. This list shall include the transfer potential of the
sending site, the amount transferred and to which receiving site, and the transfer amount
that remains on the sending site.
b. If a private entity conveys transfer rights to another private entity, the City shall be
notified of the sale.
Amend 14-2B-8, Special Provisions, by adding the following subsection:
D. Transfer of Development Rights
1. Transfer of development rights shall be subject to the provisions outlined in 14-2A-7E.
DRAFT
Planning & Zoning Commission
October 18, 2018
3
Amend 14-2C-11, Special Provisions, by adding the following subsection:
C. Transfer of Development Rights
1. Transfer of development rights shall be subject to the provisions outlined in 14-2A-7E.
Amend 14-3C-2A, Applicability, adding a new paragraph 12, as follows:
12. Transfer of development rights: Transfer of development rights requested according to 14-
2G-7G “Building Height Bonus Provisions”, of this title or according to 14-2A-7, 14-2B-8, 14-
2C11 “Special Provisions”, of this title.
Amend 14-3C-3A, Levels of Design Review, paragraph 2, as follows:
2. Level II Review:
a. A level II review will be conducted for the following designated areas, properties, and
structures:
(1) Urban renewal project, Iowa R-14, except for minor exterior alterations, such as
signage, window placement, and color, that do not substantially change the building
concept of the council approved plan. Such minor alterations will be subject to level I
review.
(2) Certain public-private partnership agreements; level of review is pursuant to the
specific development agreement. (Ord. 05-4186, 12-15-2005)
(3) Structures designed with certain building height bonuses allowed pursuant to
subsection 14-2G-7G of this title. (Ord. 14-4586, 6-3-2014)
(4) Transfer of development rights requested according to 14-2G-7G “Building Height
Bonus Provisions”, of this title or according to 14-2A-7, 14-2B-8, 14-2C-11 “Special
Provisions”, of this title.
b. Applications for level II review will be reviewed by the staff design review committee with
their recommendation forwarded to the city council for approval, modification, or
disapproval according to the procedures for design review contained in chapter 8, article
B, "Administrative Approval Procedures", of this title.
DRAFT
Planning & Zoning Commission
October 18, 2018
4
Amend 14-3C-3B, Approval Criteria, by adding paragraph 10, as follows:
10. Transfer of development rights: Design review subject to the design guidelines listed in
subsection C of this section.
Amend 14-2G-7G-3, Historic Preservation Height Transfers, by amending the subsection
as follows:
3. Historic Preservation Height Transfers: The following transfer of development rights and
corresponding height bonus provides an incentive for the preservation and adaptive reuse of
historic properties:
a. Eligibility: The historic preservation height transfer is an option for sites that meet the
following criterion:
(1) The site from which the height transfer is requested (sending site) is designated as
an Iowa City landmark, listed as a contributing structure in an Iowa City historic district,
eligible for landmark designation, registered on the national register of historic places, or
listed as a historically significant building as determined by the survey and evaluation of
the historic and architectural resources for the vicinity.
b. Requirements:
(1) If the sending site has not already been designated as an Iowa City landmark or Iowa
City historic district, the applicant must apply for and obtain approval of this designation
as a condition of the transfer of development rights; and
(2) All historic buildings and structures on the sending site must be preserved against
decay, deterioration, and kept free from structural defects by the owner or such person,
persons, or entities who may have custody or control thereof, according to the provisions
of section 14-3B-7, "Prevention Of Demolition By Neglect", of this title.
c. Transfer Of Development Rights:
(1) The floor area that results from multiplying the number of stories allowed at the
sending site as specified in the applicable subdistrict standards by the acreage of the
sending site may be transferred to one or more eligible site(s) within the riverfront
crossings district. For example, if the land being preserved as a historic landmark is
located in the central crossings subdistrict and is twenty thousand (20,000) square feet
in size, then eighty thousand (80,000) square feet of floor area (20,000 x 4) may be
transferred to one or more eligible sites and the resulting building or buildings on the
DRAFT
Planning & Zoning Commission
October 18, 2018
5
receiving sites may exceed the height limit of the respective subdistrict, within the limits
established in this section.
(2) The resulting building or buildings on the receiving site(s) may not exceed the
maximums stated within subsection G1d of this section.
Proposed Eligible Receiving Sitesµ
0 1 20.5 Miles
Prepared By: Luke FoelschDate Prepared: Oct. 2018
Legend
Riverfront Crossings Eligible Sites
All Other Eligible Sites
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 20, 2018 – 7:00 PM – FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry Baker, Mike Hensch, Phoebe Martin, Max Parsons, Mark
Signs, Billie Townsend
MEMBERS ABSENT: Carolyn Dyer
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Ann Russett
OTHERS PRESENT: Scott Ritter, Matt Miller, Kyle Hancock
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 5-0 (Hensch recused, Dyer absent) the Commission recommends approval of
REZ18-00018, an application submitted by Johnson County, Iowa for a rezoning of CI-1 to P-1
on 5.82 acres of land located at 1914 S. Gilbert Street, 1804 Waterfront Drive, 260, 306, & 346
Southgate Avenue subject to City Council approval of the following conditions:
1. Compliance with the requirements for Class 1 Critical Facilities per the City’s floodplain
management standards, and
2. Prior to any site disturbance on the property receive approval from the State
Archeologist to proceed.
CALL TO ORDER:
Hensch called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
REZONING ITEM (REZ18-00018):
Discussion of an application submitted by Johnson County, Iowa for the rezoning of
approximately 5.82 acres of property located at 1914 S. Gilbert Street, 1804 Waterfront Drive,
260, 306, & 346 Southgate Avenue from Intensive Commercial (CI-1) to Neighborhood Public
(P-1).
Hensch recused himself from this item per his conflict of employment with Johnson County.
Russett stated this rezoning application is for a change from Intensive Commercial (CI-1) to
Neighborhood Public (P-1), it is submitted by Johnson County, Iowa, for a proposed Behavioral
Health Urgent Care Center or Access Center. The Access Center will provide services to
Planning and Zoning Commission
September 20, 2018
Page 2 of 6
individuals experiencing behavioral health crises and connect them with necessary service such
as mental health services or housing support and the center will provide crisis observation and
stabilization, substance abuse treatment and act as a low-barrier winter shelter. The property is
generally located at the northwest corner of Southgate Avenue and the Crandic Rail Line, the
property is currently privately held however Johnson County has a purchase agreement for the
property.
Russett showed a map of the current zoning in the area, the project site is zoned Intensive
Commercial, the areas to the east and west are also zoned Intensive Commercial, there are
some areas to the north and the west that are zoned Community Commercial. The proposed
zoning is to Neighborhood Public, which is a zone district that applied to properties owned by
either County, the City or the Iowa City Community School District. The Comprehensive Plan,
future plan use map, identifies this area a commercial and the South District Plan also identifies
this area as an area for commercial development. Russett showed some photos of the project
site. She noted the site is located within flood hazard areas, in both the 500 and 100 year
floodplains. The City does have a floodplain management ordinance which does not allow
facilities to locate within flood hazard areas if they are the base of operations for emergency
services, are particularly difficult to evacuate during a flood event, or provide services essential
to the life, health, and safety of the community. Per the floodplain management ordinance, these
facilities are Class 1 Critical Facilities. Based on the description of the Behavioral Health Urgent
Care Center, staff has determined it to be a Class 1 Critical Facility since the facility could be
difficult to evacuate and would be unable to provide stabilization and treatment services during a
flood event. In order to comply with the City’s floodplain management ordinance, development of
the proposed Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center requires raising the grade around the facility
to the 500-year flood level elevation. Furthermore, at least one access to and from the site
needs to be passable during a 500-year flood level event. Staff recommends as a condition of
approval that the development of the center must comply with the requirements for Class 1
Critical Facilities per the City’s floodplain management standards. The site is accessed via
Southgate Avenue and the applicant is exploring providing a connection to the site via Waterfront
Drive that crosses the Crandic railroad and that access might be able to be used during a flood
event.
Russett noted there are also possible archeological resources in this area and therefore Staff
recommends a condition of approval that the site must be approved by a State Archeologist prior
to any site disturbance.
In terms of stormwater management, the site was platted in 2007 and required at that time to
install stormwater management facilities, and these stormwater management facilities will be
further analyzed by the public works staff at the time of site plan review to ensure they have an
adequate capacity for the proposed access center. Russett stated Staff has received one letter
from the public regarding this possible rezoning, which was passed out to the Commission, and
the concerns in the letter were focused on stormwater management.
Staff recommends that REZ18-00018, an application submitted by Johnson County, Iowa for a
rezoning of CI-1 to P-1 on 5.82 acres of land located at 1914 S. Gilbert Street, 1804 Waterfront
Drive, 260, 306, & 346 Southgate Avenue subject to City Council approval of the following
conditions:
1. Compliance with the requirements for Class 1 Critical Facilities per the City’s floodplain
management standards, and
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September 20, 2018
Page 3 of 6
2. Prior to any site disturbance on the property receive approval from the State
Archeologist to proceed.
Signs asked if the access on Waterfront Drive would solve the problem of ingress and egress
during a flood event. Russett noted part of Waterfront Drive is above the floodplain and based
on the elevations it would probably be the best location for that access.
Baker asked why staff chose to use the 500 year floodplain as the condition placed on approval
rather than the 100 year event. Russett replied that the 500 year is what is required for Class 1
Critical Facilities per the Zoning Code. Baker asked what the difference between the 500 and
100 year events. Russett explained the difference as the percentage of which the event could
occur. A 500 year flood event would happen with a 0.2% chance in a year and a 100 year event
is a 1% change within a year. Baker asked what the difference would be on the development if
the City required it to be at the 100 year event standard. Russett said the elevation grade the
property would need to be raised would be lower than the 500 year elevation. The impact of a
500 year event is greater and therefore the elevations need to be higher. Baker asked if the
difference in elevations from the 100 to 500 year events have impact on the neighboring
properties. Russett stated regardless they need to provide stormwater management.
Townsend asked if the whole area would be raised to the 500 year level. Russett said just the
building on the property and an access driveway. Townsend noted that at any given time there
may be anywhere from 16 to 60 beds in the facility, and is concerned how to get that many
people evacuated if there is a flood. Russett said that is why the facility needs to be elevated to
the floodplain, in 2008 the access across the railroad tracks and even the corner of Southgate
Avenue on the southeast side were not under water. Parsons noted there is generally enough
warning during a 500 year flood event to have time to evacuate.
Parsons opened the public hearing.
Scott Ritter (Hart-Frederick Consultants) answered Baker question of the difference in elevations
from a 500 and 100 year events is 2.7 feet and the natural ground there is at the 500 elevation
so they will raise the area a little to get above that, and they would add an access off of
Waterfront Drive to be used for emergencies. Ritter also noted regarding the letter from the
neighbor, that property is above the subject property, the subject property is downstream. The
difference between the subject property and Highway 6 is one foot difference in elevation.
Baker asked if any other sites or locations were considered. Ritter is not privy to those
discussions, that discussion would have been with the Johnson County Board of Supervisors.
Matt Miller (Project Manager, Johnson County) stated there were several other properties
researched for this access center. He noted he was hired by the County on May 15 and at that
point they already had this location picked out, but he does understand there were other
locations previously looked at but for one reason or another just didn’t pan out.
Parsons asked about the Good Neighbor Meeting and if one has been held. Miller said one has
not been held yet, but they are planning to conduct one.
Kyle Hancock (Hansch, LLC, 1840 S. Gilbert Street) is concerned and wants to address the plan
for runoff and stormwater management. The property that he owns is downstream and at lower
Planning and Zoning Commission
September 20, 2018
Page 4 of 6
elevations than the subject property and feels raising the subject property up will put his property
and others at more of a risk. Hancock also raised concern about the construction process and
plans, and if the building will be in the southeast corner of the property, he questions what is the
proposed use of the rest of the property.
Ritter responded that the rest of the site will remain as is except for the area where the building
and parking lot will be. There is currently a detention pond already there with outflow going east.
Parsons closed the public hearing.
Signs moved to recommend approval of REZ18-00018, an application submitted by
Johnson County, Iowa for a rezoning of CI-1 to P-1 on 5.82 acres of land located at 1914
S. Gilbert Street, 1804 Waterfront Drive, 260, 306, & 346 Southgate Avenue subject to City
Council approval of the following conditions:
3. Compliance with the requirements for Class 1 Critical Facilities per the City’s
floodplain management standards, and
4. Prior to any site disturbance on the property receive approval from the State
Archeologist to proceed.
Martin seconded the motion.
Signs noted typically the Commission sees more of a site plan with such applications so they can
see where the building will be located and where the detention basins will be, etc.
Townsend is concerned with flooding in that area and the possibility of children being there
during a flood. She noted that property will only have the building and parking lot and then a lot
of open space that will be zoned P-1 and something could be put on that area like a school.
Parsons asked if that were to happen, would Staff need to approve that site plan. Russett
confirmed they would, and for a school to be there the property would need to be owned by the
School District, as long as the County owns the property there could be a public use there but
not likely a school.
Hektoen noted that any structure that is put on this property would have to be elevated to the 500
year floodplain plus one foot.
Martin stated she likes the proposal and feels good about the two caveats for the
recommendation because this access center is something the area really needs. The plans for
elevations make sense.
Parsons agrees with Martin and feels this will serve the community and conforms with the area.
Baker shared Signs concern that they did not receive site plans or elevations for this proposal.
He added it helps with decision making and likes to have those items presented. Russett stated
there are not different standards for rezoning public versus non-public zones, having a site plan
and elevations is not something that is required of anyone for rezonings however is something
that is encourage as it does help the Commission in the decision making process. Baker said if
this were a private project he would likely want to defer and request more information, however
he does agree with Martin that this access center is much needed in the community.
Baker asked a general procedural question, at the last three meetings the Commission has been
Planning and Zoning Commission
September 20, 2018
Page 5 of 6
asked to alter a regulation or zone based upon a specific problem of a specific project, here is a
problem so change the rules for us situations. Baker wonders if that is a recurring process the
Commission deal with often. Hektoen said they are not asking the Commission to change the
rules for them, they are asking for a rezoning and a rezoning is to satisfy the needs of whoever is
doing the development. Russett noted rezoning applications can be initiate by the City, the
property owner, the developer, the purchaser, in effort to create a new project.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0 (Hensch recused, Dyer absent).
Hensch rejoined the meeting.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: SEPTEMBER 6, 2018
Signs moved to approve the meeting minutes of September 6, 2018.
Parsons seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
Russett introduced the new associate planner, Jessie Lile.
Baker will miss the October 18 meeting.
Townsend will be absent October 4 and November 1 meetings.
Adjournment:
Martin moved to adjourn.
Parsons seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2018
2/15
3/1
(W.S)
3/12
3/15
(W.S.)
4/2
4/5
(W.S)
4/16
4/19
5/3
5/17
6/7
6/21
7/5
8/16
9/6
9/20
BAKER, LARRY -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X O/E X X
DYER, CAROLYN X X X O/E X O/E X X X X X O/E X O O/E O
FREERKS, ANN X X X X X X X X O/E X X X ‘-- -- ‘-- -- ‘-- -- ‘-- --
HENSCH, MIKE X X O/E O/E X X X X X X X X X X X X
MARTIN, PHOEBE X X O/E X X X X X X X X X X X X X
PARSONS, MAX O/E X X X X X X X X X X X X X O/E X
SIGNS, MARK X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
THEOBALD, JODIE O/E X X X X X X X X X X O/E ‘-- -- ‘-- -- ‘-- -- ‘-- --
TOWNSEND, BILLIE -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X X X x
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member