Condensing and reducing zoning districts has a downstream effect, homogenizing uses, setbacks, and City neighborhoods. The rationale for these changes has shifted during meetings. On August 7th, the rationale was non-conformities, meaning that certain lots were too small or too narrow, resulting in property owners needing a variance. During the August 14th meeting, a comment by the Zoning Administrator revealed that fewer than 5 variances are requested per year, and sometimes 1 or none. Further analysis by the consultant shows that only 15 lots would become conforming through zone district consolidation. What is not revealed in the analysis, nor addressed by staff or the Planning Commission, is the current zoning code provision called 'Pre-existing Lots.' If there is a lot that is too small or too narrow and is not in common ownership with an adjacent lot, and was created prior to 1976, the lot can be built. If the lot is located in the Plat of Southard and Crandall's Addition to the Village of Little Traverse, it can also be built. Lots in this plat are also provided specific setbacks, height, and yards (see page 21 of the code). Specifically, height cannot exceed 32'. The current existing and proposed height in the residential districts is 35'; however, the regulated story height in the current code is 2.5, while the proposed code eliminates stories as a governing standard.