LYNN — Mayor Jared Nicholson’s office announced in a statement that the Zoning Code Audit Report has been issued to the public as a step toward implementing Vision Lynn, the city’s comprehensive plan, and asked for community members to complete a survey before the city’s proposed zoning rewrite.

Vision Lynn, according to the statement, “is aimed at modernizing land use, strengthening neighborhoods, and encouraging vibrant redevelopment along commercial corridors.” 

Some of its key findings include the need for updated definitions, the reevaluation of zoning districts, a modernized use table, and supporting future employment opportunities, like creative arts and climate tech. 

“The audit shows how only 4% of the buildings in residential zones meet today’s requirements,” the statement reads. “This signals the need for a zoning code that reflects Lynn’s current conditions and vision for the future.”

The statement also explained that these changes will help boost equity by cutting costs and providing small-scale neighborhood investments.

Principal Planning Director Aaron Clausen mentioned in the statement that this is also a way to modernize the city’s zoning codes and will be helpful for developers who seek more clarity around the process. 

Nicholson also emphasized the importance of zoning reform, describing it as “one of the most powerful regulatory tools municipalities have to carry out land use and development objectives.”

The statement ended by emphasizing that an online survey was also sent out and is available in English and Spanish. Residents, property owners, developers, and potential stakeholders are urged to participate so that data and feedback can be collected before the rewrite.

To access the survey, visit lynnincommon.com/zoning.