• 2. Review and evaluate the current policies regarding subdivision of residential properties, and if needed, modify the subdivision and zoning codes to maintain existing neighborhood ambiance.
  • 3. Support the development of new or upgraded housing options that would be attractive to Oakwood’s elderly population and empty nesters, and improve existing multi-family housing units within the community.
  • 4. Ensure that home improvements, additions and new housing construction are compatible with, complement and enhance existing neighborhood scale and character; review and revise, as needed, zoning regulations as they relate to building bulk issues.
  • 5. Take steps to ensure high standards for building and landscape design within all residential areas; consider the establishment of a Design Review Board, as a voluntary resource that would provide creative advice and assistance to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, City Council and to property owners considering home improvements or new construction.

3. COMMERCIAL and BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Goal:
A system of retail, service and office development that provides local residents with needed goods and services, increases the City’s tax base, and is a vital part of the Oakwood community.

EXISTING OBJECTIVES:

  • 1. Maintain Oakwood’s existing commercial areas as primarily community-oriented shopping and business districts, rather than regionally oriented centers.
  • 2. Ensure that all commercial sites and buildings are adequately maintained, and that maintenance and repairs are undertaken as required and in a timely fashion.
  • 3. Regularly review customer and employee parking within Oakwood’s commercial areas and consider improvements where appropriate.
  • 4. Seek ways to enhance the pedestrian scale and orientation of Oakwood’s commercial areas.

NEW OBJECTIVES:

  • 1. Ascertain the best mix of business uses in Oakwood. Target development of appropriate high-quality and compatible new commercial and business uses within Oakwood’s existing commercial areas that would enhance the City’s tax base and add community-valued businesses.
  • 2. Work with property owners to undertake improvements to further upgrade the appearance of the business area, including enhancements to private properties and the public rights-of-way.
  • 3. Review the existing “Business District Design Guidelines” to ensure that all new retail and business developments complement the traditional image and character of Oakwood.
  • 4. Review existing zoning regulations to help promote creative site and building design solutions that can help off-set the small site sizes and other constraints present within Oakwood’s commercial areas.