Department of Planning and Community Development: An Ordinance Authorizing the Release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Professional Consulting Services to Prepare a Comprehensive Update to the City of Mount Vernon Zoning Ordinance

The Department of Planning and Community Development is requesting City Council authorization to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for professional consulting services to comprehensively update the City of Mount Vernon Zoning Ordinance. This update is a critical step to implement the city's recently adopted Comprehensive Plan (November 2025), which outlines a vision for land use, housing, economic development, transportation, sustainability, and community character. The selected consultant will conduct a full review of the existing ordinance, develop updated zoning districts, standards, and guidelines, and manage public engagement and environmental review (including a Generic Environmental Impact Statement). The project aims to create a modern, user-friendly, and legally sound zoning framework that supports the goals of transit-oriented development, equity, and environmental resilience. Consultant fees will be funded through the Contracted Outside Services budget line 8020.405 in the adopted 2026 City Budget. The RFP will be released after City Council approval, with public notice in The Journal News (LoHud).