Planning Commission - 7/9/2026

The City of Watertown Planning Commission held a meeting on July 9, 2026, primarily focused on zoning amendments and the creation of new zoning districts to support institutional and residential development. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a zoning amendment to rezone a property adjacent to US Highway 81 to C3 Highway Commercial, aligning with existing land use. The commission also reviewed and recommended for city council approval the establishment of a new Campus District zoning classification designed to accommodate large institutional campuses such as Lake Area Technical College and the hospital, requiring a minimum of 10 acres and allowing for adjacent property rezoning under specific conditions. Additionally, the commission considered the creation of an R3S Congregate Living Residential District to facilitate higher-density student housing, with detailed discussions on definitions, permitted uses, and proximity requirements to campuses. The meeting included motions and votes recommending these zoning changes to the city council, with attention to clarifying ordinance language and enforcement challenges related to student housing occupancy. No direct contract awards or procurement contracts were discussed, but the zoning changes could impact future development projects and related procurement activities.