Requesting ordainment of an amendment to Sections 3.1.16, 3.2.15, 4.1.13, 4.2.13, 4.3.13, 4.4.13, 5.1.14, 6.1.11, 6.2.12, 6.3.11, 6.4.14, 6.5.11, 8.2.4, 9.1.1, 9.2.8, and 9.2.9 of the Zoning Ordinance to amend use tables and standards.

To the Honorable City Council: The Mayor respectfully submits for this Council’s consideration and ordainment an amendment Sections 3.1.16, 3.2.15, 4.1.13, 4.2.13, 4.3.13, 4.4.13, 5.1.14, 6.1.11, 6.2.12, 6.3.11, 6.4.14, 6.5.11, 8.2.4, 9.1.1, 9.2.8, and 9.2.9 of the Somerville Zoning Ordinances to update use tables and standards. The purpose of this amendment is to better align permitted uses with zoning district goals, to help reduce commercial vacancy by expanding the commercial uses permitted by right or by special permit for ground story commercial units and other commercial buildings, and to help streamline the permitting process by removing unnecessary barriers to economic activity. Appropriate staff will be available to answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your consideration of this matter. Respectfully, Jake Wilson, Mayor