Chapter 17.80 — AMENDMENTS TO ZONING CODE

A.

Intent and Purpose. To accommodate changing conditions over time, the provisions of this chapter may be amended or changed, in the manner prescribed by law if justified by the purposes, intent or provisions of the general plan and by public necessity, convenience, general welfare, and good zoning practice.

B.

Authority of the Commission. Subject to the provisions of this chapter, the planning commission shall report and recommend on any proposed amendment, change or repeal of the provisions of this chapter, prior to adoption by the city council.

C.

Initiation of Proposed Amendment.

1.

An amendment to change or repeal the provisions of this chapter may be initiated by commission or council, by motion or by resolution.

2.

Such amendment may be proposed by other public or private organizations or persons through written communication filed with the commission or council. The commission or council shall then recommend by motion or resolution whether the proposed changes require further study by the department or whether an amendment shall be initiated.

D.

Public Hearings. The planning commission may hold a public hearing to receive evidence or testimony on proposed ordinance text amendments, if it finds that the proposed amendment will be of considerable citywide interest and impact. Otherwise, such amendments shall be considered during the public meetings of the commission.

E.

Notification of Public Hearing. Notification of the time, place and purpose of public hearings to receive evidence or testimony on proposed amendments shall be by at least one publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the city not less than ten (10) days prior to the date of the hearing.

F.

Time Limits. If the proposed amendment is initiated by the city council, the commission shall file its report and recommendation within such reasonable period as the council may specify. Otherwise, the commission may set its own time limits.

G.

Council Vote. The city council may adopt an ordinance substantially modifying or reversing the commission's recommendation concerning changes to text only upon a four-fifths vote of the whole council.

H.

Effective Date. An ordinance conforming to council action shall be prepared and submitted to the city attorney for approval as to form and legality. Unless otherwise expected, the ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after publication of such ordinance.

(Prior code § 080.30)