REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL FROM: JENNIFER CLARK, Director Planning and Development Department BY: SOPHIA PAGOULATOS, Planning Manager Planning and Development Department SUBJECT ..Title RESOLUTION - Initiating a Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance pursuant to Fresno Municipal Code Section 15-5803-A (1), to permit residential conversions in the Office Zone District, allow ministerial approval of office-to-residential conversions, and allow ministerial approval of housing near bus stops and in zone districts that allow mixed-use ..Body RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends approval of a resolution to initiate a Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to permit residential conversions in the Office Zone District, allowing ministerial approval of office-to-residential conversions, and allowing ministerial approval of housing near bus stops and in zone districts that allow mixed-use. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The resolution will initiate a Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to permit residential conversions in the Office Zone District, allow ministerial approval of office-to-residential conversions, and allow ministerial approval of housing near bus stops and in zone districts that allow mixed-use. Following initiation, staff will conduct all necessary analysis and coordinate review by the appropriate Committees and Commissions, per the requirements of Chapter 15 Article 58 of the Fresno Municipal Code. BACKGROUND The changing dynamics of office work has reduced demand for office space, leaving many existing offices vacant and available for conversion to other uses. Meanwhile, the city of Fresno is experiencing a housing shortage and needs more safe, quality, and affordable housing options. Furthermore, housing near bus stops allows residents access to an affordable and environmentally sustainable transportation options and zone districts that allow mixed-use are strategically designed to provide both housing and commercial near transit, promoting the development of complete neighborhoods. Allowing office-to-residential conversations and allowing housing near bus stops and in zone districts that allow mixed-use to be approved through a ministerial approval will address these dynamics in a manner favorable to increasing both housing production and transit ridership. ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS This approval is not a project for the purpose of CEQA Guidelines Section 15378. LOCAL PREFERENCE Local Preference is not applicable because this approval does not require expenditure of funds. FISCAL IMPACT There is no spending associated with this action. Attachment: Resolution