GOAL 2: Refine Regulatory Framework
ACTION 2B : Refine Building Permit Process, Guidelines
LEAD And TEAM: City, MDC, DA

STARTUP: Second Quarter
ACTION TYPE: One-Time Project
RESOURCE CATEGORY: 1, 7

Many people have noted a weakness in the City's building permit process. Currently, all building permits in the Downtown area fall under ‘conditional use' category. This situation makes it difficult for property owners and developers to know what is truly acceptable development. The permitting process also is seen as taking too long. Ambiguity and delays are very costly in the development process. The result will often be that desirable development will be driven away to other places with more refined permitting systems.

This reality makes completion of design guidelines and refinements to the permitting process another top priority for MDC, City staff and the Downtown Association. These parties should collaborate as quickly as possible to complete this action. Once done, the MDC should promote the new system, as well as the Downtown Marketing Strategy, to the development community – especially Downtown property owners.

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