The primary focus of the meeting was a public hearing concerning amendments to Title 15, Land Usage, Chapter 152, Zoning Section 152.33 (Definitions), Section 152.090 (Outside Storage), and Section 152.09 (Screening) of the municipal code. The amendments aim to define the appropriate use and placement of storage containers within the city limits. According to the discussed text, storage containers will now be allowed in the Agricultural District and the Commercial Industrial (CI) District but will be excluded from Residential, General Commerce, Central Business, and Public Institutional Districts.

Key provisions of the new regulations include limitations on the number of storage containers, restricting it to a maximum of three per lot. The containers must be situated in the rear or side yards, adhering to setback requirements, and cannot be stacked. The dimensions of the containers are also capped at 40 feet in length, 8.5 feet in width, and 10 feet in height.

Additionally, aesthetic and practical guidelines were established. Storage containers must be painted in earth-tone colors to blend with the principal structures on the lot and maintained in good condition. They should also be screened according to Section 152.91 unless they are painted in a complementary color. No additional signage or advertising will be permitted on the containers beyond what is originally manufactured.

The commission discussed the necessity of these regulations, noting that some storage containers are already being used within the city without clear guidelines, leading to inconsistency in appearance and potential issues with property values and land use. The amendments are intended to balance the needs of businesses for cost-effective storage solutions with the city’s goal of maintaining a cohesive and visually appealing environment.

One commissioner expressed concerns about the potential revenue loss from not taxing storage containers as buildings. However, it was also pointed out that these containers provide a practical and secure storage solution for businesses, which can contribute to the local economy in other ways. Another commissioner emphasized the importance of not stifling business growth with excessive regulations while ensuring that the use of storage containers does not become unsightly or excessive.