In a move aimed at stimulating development in Blaine’s Central Business District (CBD), the City Council has approved an interim ordinance that temporarily removes certain building restrictions. Effective March 16, 2026, this ordinance eliminates maximum building height limits, design reviews, and minimum vehicle parking requirements within the CBD for a one-year period.
The decision was finalized on March 23, 2026, with a unanimous 7-0 vote by the council. City Manager Michael Harmon described the measure as a “step in the right direction for increasing housing in Blaine.” During the public hearing, developers expressed support for the ordinance, highlighting its potential to reduce development costs and expedite project timelines. Some residents, however, voiced concerns about the possible loss of design standards and the impact of taller structures on existing views.
According to staff reports, the previous height and design requirements were seen as factors that increased development costs by limiting unit density and necessitating lengthy review processes. By removing these constraints, the city aims to make the CBD more attractive to developers, thereby fostering residential growth and revitalizing the area.
As this interim ordinance is set for a one-year duration, the City Council plans to monitor its impact on development and community feedback closely. This period will serve as a test to determine whether such regulatory relaxations effectively encourage growth while maintaining the character and livability of the CBD.