Development News for Newark, Delaware

Newark Seeks to Clarify Special Use Permit Sunset Clause for Abandoned Uses

The Planning Commission reviewed a proposed amendment to Chapter 32 (Zoning) to clarify that special use permits (SUPs) sunset when the approved use is not utilized for one year or more. This clarification addresses a practice that had been in place but lacked explicit code language, leading to pushback during economic turbulence post-COVID. The amendment aims to ensure that properties with abandoned uses undergo a re-review to confirm they still fit the area's evolution, especially as the city narrows the scope of uses requiring SUPs. The commission discussed examples of past SUPs that followed the use rather than the land, and how the one-year abandonment period is applied, noting exceptions for ongoing efforts to re-establish a use. The commission recommended adoption of the proposed changes.

Newark Planning Commission Briefed on Recent Approvals, Affordable Housing, and Upcoming Comp Plan Initiatives

The Planning Commission was updated on recent council actions and upcoming agenda items. Notable approvals include the Center Square expansion (124 East Main Street) and a special use permit for a marijuana cultivation facility (302 Marcus Court). The commission heard about ongoing discussions regarding affordable housing and the council's prioritization process, with many items related to the Planning and Development Department. Upcoming items include the second reading for the COMP plan amendment for Lovett Avenue, with modifications to site plans for stormwater management, fencing, and security cameras, and special use permits for restaurants with alcohol at 168 East Main Street and 230 East Main Street. Future discussions will involve the steering committee appointments for COMP plan six, a review of reducing parking minimums, and potential ordinances regarding sustainable building and development. The commission was also informed about a resident's request to add daycare centers/kindergartens to specific zoning districts, which staff plans to address in upcoming discussions.

Newark Planning Commission Sets October Date for Capital Improvement Program Review

The Planning Commission received information regarding the scheduling of the annual Capital Improvement Program (CIP) review. By charter, the commission reviews the CIP each year for the budget. This review is traditionally scheduled as a special meeting in October, specifically the third Tuesday, which falls on October 21st this year. The commission confirmed this date, with one member noting it falls on their birthday and a precedent for cake exists. The Comprehensive Advisory Committee (CAC) agreed to move their meeting to accommodate this date.

Newark Planning Commission Approves 'Plan Six' for Comprehensive Development Plan Update

The Planning Commission reviewed and discussed draft three of the 'plan for planning' for the comprehensive development plan's 10-year update, referred to as 'Plan Six'. This document outlines the planning process, including revisions based on previous commission comments and discussions with the consulting firm, Rossi Group. The plan establishes a steering committee and details a three-phase process for public engagement and plan development, incorporating various outreach methods like pop-up workshops, public workshops, and online platforms. Key strategic issues for the update include simplifying future land use designations, exploring form-based codes, conforming zoning with the comprehensive plan, and refining mapping and document length for readability. The commission also discussed the structure of the steering committee, technical advisory group, and public engagement strategies, with particular attention to council involvement and communication throughout the process. Demographic projections and potential impacts of population trends were also considered as part of the planning process. The commission ultimately voted to approve the plan for planning.