The Downtown Commission was formed in 1997 with the adoption of a new Downtown District in the City Zoning Code.  The nine-member Commission is the approval authority for Downtown Planning, Zoning, Graphics and Design Review issues and is also supported by staff of the Downtown Development Office.

The Commission meetings are conducted monthly to review new construction and renovation projects which require their approval.  The Commission functions as the Board of Zoning & Adjustment, Planning Commission and Graphics Commission within the boundaries of the Downtown District.  The authority given this Commission allows the zoning approval process to be streamlined by reviewing all issues for a downtown development project simultaneously. The Downtown District, as defined in Title 33 Chapter 3359.03 of the Columbus City Code, is zoned as mixed-use with most land uses permitted through design review.  The Commission is given authority to review exterior design of each project.  The concept of mixed-use zoning allows the market to determine the location of various land uses if the overall design contributes to the vitality of Downtown.

Downtown Commission Members

Stephen Wittmann, Chair

Otto Beatty, Jr.
Kenneth Cookson
Kyle Katz
Elizabeth Lessner
Robert Loversidge
Mike Lusk
Jana Maniace
Danni Palmore

Downtown Commission meetings begin at 8:30 AM and are conducted in the Department of Development’s first floor hearing room at 109 North Front Street.  The Downtown Commission generally meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, with the exception of the meeting dates in November and December.  You are encouraged to check with staff to confirm meetings as the Commission may elect to change a meeting time or date to ensure a quorum or to accommodate a long agenda.

August 25, 2009 (Fourth Tuesday)

September 22, 2009 (Fourth Tuesday)

October 27, 2009 (Fourth Tuesday)

November 24, 2009 (Fourth Tuesday)

December 15, 2009 (Third Tuesday)

For additional information or inquiries regarding an application to appear before the Commission contact Daniel Thomas in the Planning Division at 109 N. Front Street or 614-645-8404