Project Purpose

To update the Land Use Management Ordinance (LUMO) to reflect the Council’s interest of better aligning planning processes with the Complete Communities Framework.

The proposed text amendments will modify the role of advisory boards and commissions in reviewing land use applications. Specifically, the amendments will:

• Modify the Concept Plan review process so that concept plans either go to the Planning Commission or the Town Council.
• Allow the Board of Adjustment (BOA) to approve those special use permits (SUPs) that are considered “minor” due to the use or specified thresholds. Town Council would still decide on “major” SUPs.

Background

In September 2022, the Council contracted a consultant to conduct a Planning Systems Evaluation to achieve better outcomes in the planning process and land use decisions. The evaluation found:

1. Development reviews are not delivering desired outcomes.
2. Current processes are the primary disincentive to investment in Chapel Hill.
3. Efficiencies are required to streamline the process and mitigate confusing iterations.
4. Role clarification is required.
5. An unclear process creates an emotional toll for everyone involved.
6. The time is right for change: a key success factor for change is having a clear vision.

Since that time, Council has expressed interest in streamlining planning processes and reconsidering the role of advisory boards. At their September 20, 2023, work session, Town Council expressed interest in modifying existing procedures to better align with the Complete Community Framework, including the role of advisory boards in reviewing Concept Plans and Special Use Permits (SUPs).

Process

Planning Commission reviews the proposed text amendment and recommends to Town Council. Town Council will hold a public hearing to consider the proposed amendments on November 15, 2023.

Meeting Dates