The City may amend the comprehensive plan to respond to changes identified during the evaluation process; to improve or clarify content; or to incorporate other plans, such as service, infrastructure, district, or corridor plans. These plans could originate from the City or other entities. Development Services will evaluate each new plan and recommend adjustments as part of the normal comprehensive plan maintenance process. Plans sponsored by the City may be adopted as amendments to the comprehensive plan. This process will allow the plan to remain an effective guide for decision-making for many years to come.
Individuals may wish to submit an application to amend the land use plan to modify policies or guidance related to land in which they own or have an interest.
A completed amendment application will contain information supporting the request for a plan modification. The application should explain how the proposed amendment:
- supports the comprehensive plan goals and policies;
- preserves efficiency of City services provision, including response time for public safety operations, water, sewer and available capacity for nearby streets. For applications requesting a more intense land use, the application should evaluate whether City water and gravity sewer is immediately available and has sufficient capacity;
- improves the functionality and quality of the surrounding area;
- preserves air and water quality and natural resources, such as riparian areas, and wetlands.
The application should also evaluate the supply of land in the vicinity of the proposed amendment and indicate why an increase in land designated at the proposed intensity level is needed in the area.
Once a properly completed application has been submitted, Development Services will evaluate the requested amendment and prepare an accompanying staff report. The Planning Commission will evaluate the application and staff report, hold a public hearing, and act on the requested amendment. Another public hearing will be held by the City Council to complete the process.