The city council may approve or approve with modifications or condition an application if the city council finds that the applicant has carried the burden of proof and has produced evidence sufficient to support the conclusion that the application merits approval and that the proposal complies with the applicable decision criteria in the comprehensive plan and the municipal code. In all other cases, the city council shall deny the application. (Ord. 2463 § 17, 2003; Ord. 2071 § 4, 1996)