City Council Approves Neighborhood Commercial Amendments

The Redmond City Council voted 6-1 Tuesday to approve a set of amendments to the city's comprehensive plan and zoning codes that establish two levels of neighborhood commercial zoning in some of Redmond's residential areas.

The amendments also outline the implementation of six neighborhood commercial overlay zones where businesses like restaurants, dry cleaners and small delis or grocery stores could be permitted following a review process by neighbors and city officials. ( for additional background information on the zoning designation.)

Discussions on neighborhood commercial have been in the works since early 2010, when city staff began researching the zoning designation. 

Council President Richard Cole, a steadfast opponent of neighborhood commercial, was the only council member to vote against the amendments. He said he believes the addition of retail businesses in residential areas will lower property values and could lead to increases in crime and traffic.

Although neighborhood commercial might benefit others in the neighborhood, the homes that are adjacent to the new development would experience the most negative effects, Cole said.

"I believe the government should not have the right to cause property owners to lose part of the biggest asset that most people own," he said. "Quite frankly, I don't understand why this council remains so adamant about sticking it to your neighbors."

In supporting the legislation, several city council members said Tuesday that they believe the addition of business in residential areas would promote a more walkable community and reduce the need for residents to get in the car for everyday purchases.

Council member Kim Allen said she believes current and future city council members, who will have final say on the approval of any neighborhood commercial development, will use good judgment when deciding whether to approve or reject a project.

"I'm confident in the folks that are here now and that come after us that they will use that power wisely," she said.

Other council members said they support the legislation because it merely cleans up zoning policies that are already in place and sets tougher restrictions for the establishment of neighborhood commercial.

"We've heard a number of doomsday predictions here. I don't think ... those are going to come to pass if we have the ability to stop them at this level," council member Hank Myers said. "I think it's been entirely too long that the citizens of Redmond have been forced to climb in their car for the most simple of (errands)."

The city does not currently have any pending proposals for a neighborhood commercial development.