The Portland City Council held a public hearing on a proposal to rezone approximately 1.91 acres of property located at 2000 Moore Avenue from R6 Single Family Residential to CG General Commercial. The request, submitted by property owners Robert and Kathy McCoy, aims to enhance the marketability of the site for nonresidential uses, as it has been dormant since 2022.

During the meeting, city staff outlined the criteria for evaluating the rezoning request, which includes compatibility with city plans, consistency with the Unified Development Ordinance, and the surrounding area. The property, which was annexed in 2015, has a history of nonresidential use, including contractor storage, but was rezoned to residential without the owners' knowledge during a period of personal challenges.

The Planning and Zoning Commission previously reviewed the request and unanimously recommended approval, noting the potential for commercial development in the area, especially with the upcoming expansion of Moore Avenue to a five-lane roadway. However, concerns were raised by council members regarding the implications of the zoning change, particularly its proximity to WC Andrews Elementary School and the lack of control over future developments.

Council members discussed the differences between CG and CR zoning, with CG allowing a broader range of commercial uses, including potentially more impactful developments. Some expressed hesitation about granting such extensive leeway without specific plans in place, suggesting that a special use permit might provide better oversight.

Despite these concerns, several council members acknowledged the historical commercial nature of the property and the likelihood of future commercial development along the corridor. Ultimately, the council moved to approve the first reading of the ordinance to rezone the property, reflecting a consensus on the need for commercial growth in the area while recognizing the importance of maintaining community standards and oversight.