A. Planned unit developments or specific plans shall be used as an alternate development tool for those developments that propose a creative and innovative development whose layout is not achievable by the standards under which the property is currently zoned. This type of zoning shall be reserved for only those developments which meet one or more of the following goals:
1. To encourage unique innovations in residential, commercial, and industrial development, and/or urban renewal so that the growing demands of the population may be met by greater variety in type, design, and layout of buildings and by the conservation and more efficient use of open space;
2. To encourage a more efficient use of land and of public/private services, and to reflect changes in the technology of land development that benefit the future resigned;
3. To conserve the value of the land in order to allow for development that is a creative, unique or efficient use of the land that the typical zoning standard would prevent;
4. To provide a procedure which can relate the type, design, and layout of development to the particular site, thereby encouraging preservation of the site's natural characteristics;
5. To provide for infill development that enhances, revitalizes and protects the overall characteristics of the surrounding neighborhood and natural resources.
B. In addition to meeting one of the above-mentioned goals, a statement of intent for the planned unit development or specific plan shall be prepared which gives specific direction as to the objective of the development.
C. A reduction or modification of setbacks, bulk regulations, additional signage, or amendment of land uses shall not be the sole justification for a planned unit development or specific plan. The applicant must demonstrate how the proposed development is a creative, unique or efficient use of the land and that the typical zoning standard would prevent a development that will benefit the community. (Ord. 1524, 4-28-2003; amd. Ord. 2222, 5-30-2017; Ord. 2570, 7-5-2023)