ICOnic News | The Power of Zoning: Balancing Growth, Sustainability, and Community Needs
THE POWER OF ZONING: BALANCING GROWTH, SUSTAINABILITY, AND COMMUNITY NEEDS
Zoning in real estate can be highly beneficial, when applied wisely and properly with a logical, balanced approach. Boundaries in general are a good thing and protect us from situations, events and activities that we have already decided we want to guard against, but zoning is a little different.
The purpose of zoning is to enable municipalities to establish development boundaries and guidelines that support a community's growing needs. Zoning can help to create order in development, protect real estate values, zoning plan updates to address community changes, trends in real estate and shifting population needs.
A proper zoning thought process and mentality takes many factors into account. It considers the highest and best use, size and scale, open green space, density, parking, setback and height requirements, building codes, architectural design and construction materials as well as noise control, traffic flow and public safety. This comprehensive approach ensures that zoning decisions enhance livability and support sustainable growth.
However, the biggest challenge zoning has faced in recent years is when a municipality drops the ball on keeping their Zoning Plan, Map and Development Plan updated in real-time. As populations age, there is an increasing demand for long-term housing care and increased medical care. Growing families require additional schools, athletic sports facilities, parks, restaurants and entertainment options. The rising costs of construction, taxes and insurance have forced improvements in efficiency and effectiveness of real estate through higher density footprints on smaller land sites. Health and wellness trends are also influencing zoning priorities, driving the need for more walkable space, exercise gyms, better outdoor green space for relaxing, having meetings or taking breaks for friendly outdoor games. In order to continue allowing communities to accommodate their taxpayers and citizens, municipalities must update their Zoning Plan, Map and Development Plans. When municipalities align their strategies with the current and future needs of the population, they can avoid stagnation and ensure they remain vibrant, desirable places to live, work, and play.
- Lang Motes, ICO Managing Partner - Land Specialist
WE'RE EXCITED TO WELCOME ROXANA BLANCO AS OUR NEW LAND ASSOCIATE!
We are thrilled to announce that Roxana Blanco has joined our team as a Land Associate. In her new role at ICO, Roxana will focus on driving growth in commercial real estate with a special emphasis on land transactions. She brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience, having spent the past six years handling complex land deals. Roxana is eager to leverage her extensive network of clients and connections while building new relationships that will contribute to ICO’s continued success.
Roxana’s journey to commercial real estate is a testament to perseverance and purpose. With a background in Business Management, she began her career in her family's construction business, gaining firsthand experience in both bookkeeping and field operations. Her transition into banking provided her with valuable insights into investments, business banking, and lending—skills that laid the foundation for her eventual move into residential real estate. However, it was in commercial real estate, particularly land transactions, that Roxana found her true calling. Guided by faith and the belief that every step was a “puzzle piece” leading to her purpose, she has continued to grow and thrive in her field.
Described by her coworkers as strong, hardworking, and driven by integrity, Roxana’s commitment to excellence is fueled by her desire to give her best in every aspect of her life—whether at work or at home with her family. Her upbringing taught her the importance of balance, a value she carries into her professional journey.
Outside of work, Roxana is all about family—hosting gatherings, cheering at her boys’ soccer games, and enjoying outdoor adventures. Her guiding philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Do the right thing, give 100%, and be a person of solutions, not excuses.” With this mindset, she is ready to embrace new challenges and help ICO achieve great things.
