City leaders set to discuss downtown development and demo freeze

The Columbia city council could vote on a proposed downtown freeze at its meeting next Monday.

The ordinance would place an administrative delay on building permits for multi-family developments within a one mile radius in the area of Elm, Providence, Stadium and College.

It was introduced at the May 2 city council meeting by Mayor Brian Treece.

Now that ordinance could also include a demolition freeze.

“I think demolition ought to be interrupted as well as,” said Karl Skala, Third Ward council member. “What sense would it make just to demolish this and just wait six months?”

Skala said he’s in favor of the development and demolition freeze. He said Third Ward residents have expressed concerns about construction spilling over into their neighborhoods.

“The loophole has to do with duple or four-plex development that’s not really multi-family, but it’s on R-3 zoned property,” he said. “I’m considering at least introducing an amendment to take care of that as well.”

But not all city council leaders seem to be on board with the development and demo freeze.

“This is a hasty move. It’s unnecessary and it’s unfortunate,” said Michael Trapp, Second Ward city council member.

Trapp said the proposed ordinance would hurt the city’s economy and growth. He also said it also almost discriminates against MU students.

“I don’t think dense downtown housing has been bad for Columbia. In fact, I think it’s been just the opposite,” he said. “That is the answer to sprawl and traffic. If we continue to build out on the edge, that’s just going to create more traffic and more difficulties.”

The new development and demolition freeze would not affect buildings that have already been issued a permit.