PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Kalamazoo has been slowly implementing changes in their zoning codes. Portage is about to do the same.
Zoning is what keeps developers from building a McDonald’s next to your home.
Zoning can make a community function better. When its outdated or poorly designed, it can stunt development and hurt livability.
It limits what property owners can do with that land, and that makes some angry.
It is also extremely complicated, boring and often misunderstood.
Portage is now working with a national firm on a major overhaul of their zoning codes.
Consultant Marya Morris with the Kendig Keast Collaborative told the council they are just getting started.
She says they like to simplify language, remove legalese and make the process more user-friendly for everyone involved.
She says there will be many opportunities for property owners to comment on the plan.
The consultants will make a presentation to the Portage Planning Commission tonight at 6 p.m. at City Hall, and a community session will be held Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.
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