Resolution No. 2015-015 (9)PUBLIC WORKS, WATER & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
OFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Kevin Wilson, Director of Public Works, Water & Development Services
FROM: Sergio Canales, Assistant Planner
DATE: February 12, 2014
SUBJECT: Community Input Workshop Summary
A "Zoning Ordinance Amendment flyer" was mailed to all interest parties and property owners in the
City in January, 2015. The mailing was an invitation to attend one of two community workshops to
discuss and provide input on the proposed revisions. Both workshops took place at Vernon City Hall
Council Chambers.
Comments received during the Community Workshops held on January 26th and February 5th regarding
the proposed revisions are summarized in this memo.
COMMENTS
Residential Overlay
• Long term property owner suggested that the City allow existing buildings to be used as lofts , art
studios with living quarters etc. They mentioned that the City should not restrict locations for
housing development, because in people eyes it seems that the only properties that can be
developed are city owned properties. Instead of encouraging housing development..... it all looks
one-sided.
Retail and Commercial use
• Why restrict wholesale businesses from doing retail. As it is, the majority of the wholesalers in
Vernon are doing some type of retail. Why not make it easy for retailers, don't restrict property
owners/business owners from expanding its uses.
• Owners should not be restricted from renting or leasing existing office space within their existing
building and shall not limit ancillary uses. Owners rather see the space occupied rather than vacant
Landscape requirement (5%)
• Concern that the landscape requirement will be taking -up future parking and loading spaces,
because of the increase it would also prevent more development for these smaller property sites.