GOSHEN, Ind. — The City of Goshen has launched work on a unified development ordinance and is encouraging residents to complete a brief online survey to help shape the update.
The unified development ordinance, or UDO, will replace Goshen’s zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations with one streamlined document. City leaders aim to simplify development rules, resolve conflicts, and align standards with the community’s desired development patterns.
Mayor Gina Leichty has assembled a task force to guide the update. Members are meeting regularly and reviewing the ordinances section by section to recommend changes.
City officials say the consolidated approach will reduce duplication, clarify expectations, and support consistent decision-making. The final UDO will serve as a single reference for land use and development across the city, with improved formatting, graphics, and charts to aid usability.
Unified development ordinance process seeks community input
Community feedback plays a key role in shaping the UDO. The City is gathering input early through an online survey to help identify priorities before draft language advances.
A project website created by TSW Design Group outlines the scope of work and explains the review process. The site includes the community survey and an option to subscribe for email updates as the project moves forward.
The survey invites residents, property owners, and business leaders to share perspectives on growth, housing, transportation, and neighborhood character. City staff say responses will help highlight areas where current regulations create confusion or limit flexibility.
Task force members will use public feedback alongside technical review as sections of the UDO move forward. Additional engagement opportunities will follow as draft language develops.
A public open house is planned for fall 2026, when a draft UDO will be available for community review. As part of the adoption process, a formal public hearing will also take place before the Plan Commission later in the year. Meeting dates have not yet been scheduled.
Most properties will not see significant changes under the UDO, according to project materials. The process will conclude with review and consideration by the Goshen City Council.
City leaders view the UDO as a tool to support thoughtful growth while protecting neighborhood character. Residents can find project details, complete the survey, and sign up for updates through the “Goshen IN UDO” webpage.