ROCKVILLE, Md., July 3, 2008 – The Mayor and Council voted to extend the deadline for submission of written testimony on the draft zoning ordinance and map. Those wishing to testify will have until July 16 to submit their comments. The Mayor and Council’s schedule for reviewing and revising the draft zoning ordinance is as follows:
- June 16 - July 16: public record is open.
Comments can be sent to the Mayor and Council via email or regular mail (see addresses below) - July 7: Joint meeting of the Mayor and Council and Planning Commission
- July 9, 14, 16: Worksessions
- August 4: Proposed introduction and adoption
Rockville's zoning ordinance regulates development on all properties in Rockville, including building height, setbacks and accessory structures on residential property, permitted land uses, and the size and scale of new development. Rockville’s zoning ordinance has not been fully revised since 1975.
Rockville began the process of reviewing and rewriting its 30-year-old draft ordinance in 2005. Included in that process was intensive work by a citizen committee, extensive public comment and review, outreach to the residential and business communities, outreach at civic and homeowner association meetings, two public hearings and multiple worksessions before the Planning Commission. The resulting draft, finalized on May 21, reflects the Planning Commission's desire for high quality development and improved procedures.
The Mayor and Council initially imposed a phased moratorium in November 6 to be in effect while the zoning ordinance was under review. The moratorium was extended at the June 16, 2008 Mayor and Council meeting with some minor modifications. The moratorium was modified to allow for the filing of variances, special exceptions not requiring a use permit, and minor subdivisions. These applications are likely not affected by any changes proposed in the final draft zoning ordinance. The moratorium is set to expire September 30, 2008.
The Mayor and Council’s meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Mayor and Council Chambers, located at City Hall, 111 Maryland Avenue. All meetings will be televised on The Rockville Channel 11. Written testimony may be sent to the Mayor and Council by July 16 at mayorcouncil@rockvillemd.gov or at 111 Maryland Ave. Additional information, including a full copy the draft ordinance, is available at www.rockvillemd.gov/zoning.
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