FAQs
Who is driving the process and the content of the standards and guidelines? What has the city done to engage the entire community?
City staff has sought to engage a broader representation of residents. The city sent postcards in September and November 2022 to every resident in Lincoln Park to notify residents of public meetings and the publication of the draft design standards and guidelines. Additionally, we posted notifications about public meetings on Nextdoor; called and emailed residents, including community leaders and long-time residents; and worked with an advisory committee of residents to engage in outreach. Staff also posted fliers at the Lincoln Park Community Center and local retailers with information on the project and how to provide feedback. Staff has also worked with the Lincoln Park Civic Association and the Lincoln Park Historical Foundation as a connection to the larger community.
The draft standards and guidelines seem to be already set. Why should I get involved if decisions have already been made?
The draft standards and guidelines are NOT already set. In fact, they are far from it. City staff wants and needs your involvement to share what you think and any recommendations you may have.
Are these standards and guidelines like a Homeowner Association?
No. Unlike an association, the standards and guidelines would be implemented by the city and would only address the design and new construction of single-family detached homes and additions, when a building permit is required.
If adopted, will this action make my home an “illegal non-conformity?”
No. Unless changes are made to an existing house, your home will not be considered in violation of anything. Current residents with no plans to rebuild or expand their residences will not be affected should any future design standards and guidelines become adopted by the Mayor and Council.
Will this add new regulations?
Lincoln Park currently has a Neighborhood Conservation District (LPNCD), which was adopted in 2007, and provides certain development standards for properties in the neighborhood in addition to the primary zoning requirements for the area. However, the LPNCD has proven to be outdated and has resulted in unintended issues for residents wishing to receive a building permit for their property. One of the goals of the current design standards and guidelines project is to provide more clear, up-to-date standards for residents than currently exists. The city hopes to solicit feedback from residents regarding which aspects of the draft design standards and guidelines should be mandatory versus encouraged. Any design standards or guidelines would be in addition to existing city-wide zoning standards.
What happens next?
The process for this project is anticipated to extend well into 2023. All residents will have ample opportunities for involvement. Based on community feedback of the first draft of the design standards and guidelines, a second draft will be developed. The city will then hold a public meeting for you to review the second draft within the next few months. If given primarily positive community feedback on the second draft, the project will move forward to the Planning Commission and the Mayor and Council, where there will be numerous ways to participate with public hearings and written testimony.