How would a big box Conditional Use Permit work?
Any future proposed big box development would require a Conditional Use Permit. In addition to the current code provisions, a big box Conditional Use Permit would include a mandatory impact analysis to measure the net costs and benefits to the community. The impact analysis would be paid for by the applicant, but conducted by a neutral third party. It would assess projected community costs related to the project, including increased infrastructure, public safety, drainage, road construction and maintenance; it would also include an assessment of health care and housing costs, based on projected employee wages, as well as impacts to local businesses, the environment and adjacent neighborhoods. The study would also note any potential benefits, such as the creation of livable wage jobs or a net increase in sales tax above those lost by neighboring stores. If the study showed a net benefit to the community, the permit would be approved. If the study showed net costs to the community that t
