Independent Hampden: Proposed Amendment

URBAN RENEWAL - Hampden Business Area: Amendment
The following is the proposed draft amendment that Mary Pat Clarke's office has provided this weekend. I'm looking for thoughts from those who are part of the Independent Hampden coalition. Fans of Grizzlebee's can post elsewhere.

C. Special Requirements for Formula Businesses
(1) In this section B.2.c., "Formula Business" means any type of commercial business establishment that:
(I) Uses a trademark, service mark, logo, or otehr identifying name or symbol that is shared by 15 or more commercial establishments , and
(II) Maintains a standardized array of services, merchandise, decor, business method, architecture, layout, uniforms, or similar standardized feature.

(2)Nothwithstanding any other provision of this plan or of the Zoning Code, a Formula Business use in the Hampden Business Area requires specific approval by Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council.

(3) A proposed ordinance for this purpose must comply with the introductory, notice, referral and other requirements of the Zoning Code generally applicable to legislative authorizations.

(4) Before approving an ordinance for a formula business use in the Hampden Business Area, the City Council must find, in each specific case, that:
(I) The establishment, location, construction, maintenance, and operation of that use will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, or general welfare;
(II) The use will be compatible with existing surrounding uses and has been designed and will be operated in a nonobtrusive manner to preserve the community's character and ambiance
(III) Approval of the use is consistent with the policies and standards of this plan, the City's Master Plan, and the Zoning Code;
(IV)Approval of the use will contribute to an appropriate balance of locally, regionally, and nationally based businesses in the community
(V) Approval of the use will contribute to an appropriate balace of small-medium-, and large-sized businesses in the community; and
(VI) The property and structure on and within which the use will operate will be compatible with the existing architectural and esthetic character of the community.

Comments

[molly]

I'm wondering if the 15 establishment clause wouldn't just let a donna's slide in.

[momminator]

Good job tonight!

[Danielle]

Great presentation last night, Benn! Very passionate! Glad, I finally made it to a meeting as I had been following issue in the press. One thing that you didn't really get to discuss (given the short time) is that "formula businesses" are not banned outright, but require a special approval process that allows the community to weigh in on whether or not we want the proposed business. I think it's important to make sure everyone understands that.