This ordinance was last considered for second reading at the Town Council's October 3, 2017 hearing. The item was deferred to a workshop in order to discuss a more equitable approach to ensuring the completion the Town's sidewalk network. The March 21, 2018, workshop identified the special assessment as a tool to fund completion of the sidewalk network. Only those properties that receive the benefit would be subject to the assessment and the desired funding mechanism would provide greater surety of the network's completion.

In light of the workshop's discussion, it is now suggested that (1) those portions previously proposed in the ordinance that impose sidewalk construction on existing developments, and creates the mitigation fund be eliminated; (2) that language be added to require any future sidewalk be constructed consistent with the Town's Complete Street Plan; (3) to continue requiring all new development to include sidewalks; and (4) that any sidewalk damaged as a result of construction be repaired.

Because the proposed changes to the ordinance since the October 3, 2017, hearing are considered to be substantiation, it is now necessary to have the item introduced again at first reading. The modified ordinance is attached to this memo and is reflective of the proposed changes discussed above. If the item it moved on first reading it will be schedule for public hearing at the next available Town Council meeting for final consideration.

The item was moved by the Town Council at First Reading on June 5, 2018.