Certainty in the development review process can significantly encourage development or redevelopment of real property. This certainty is especially important for large-scale or multiphase developments that take years to complete and that require substantial financial commitments at an early stage. The city may, when appropriate, enhance certainty by entering into a development agreement with a project sponsor that addresses the “ground rules” for review of the development application and construction of the project. A development agreement provides the opportunity for the city and the developer to agree on the scope and timing of the project, applicable regulations and requirements, mitigation requirements and other matters relating to the development process. A development agreement promotes the general welfare by balancing the public and private interests, providing reasonable certainty for a development project, and addressing other matters, including reimbursement over time for the financing of public facilities. (Ord. 3373 § 7, 2020; Ord. 3340 § 6, 2019)