City Planning & Zoning Commission discusses request for new zoning classification

The Decorah Planning and Zoning Commission held a lengthy discussion Monday night about a petition calling for a new residential zoning classification.

Over 100 people had signed a petition written by Decorah attorney Karl Knudson calling for the city to consider adding an "R6" zoning classification that would allow for up to four family-condominiums to be built on the property.

Right now the only property that can be used for condominium development in Decorah is property zoned for high-density residential development.  However, such zoning districts can also be used for high density developments.  Knudson's suggestion is to create a medium-density zoning district which would allow condo development while prohibiting high-density development. 

Members of the Planning & Zoning Commission took no action on the request Monday night, saying they wanted more time to study the recent CHAT study about affordable housing in Decorah.  That study suggested another 300 housing units need to be built in Winneshiek County over the next ten years in order to meet demand.  P & Z Commission members want to study how that recommendation could fit in with the residential zoning classifications in the city.