During a recent government meeting, Beth presented an overview of the city's moderate income housing strategies, emphasizing the need for community input before finalizing plans. The discussion centered on the state-mandated requirement for cities to adopt moderate income housing strategies, with Eagle Mountain having already adopted five strategies, specifically focusing on Strategy 5. This strategy mandates that at least 10% of new residential developments in designated zones be allocated for moderate income housing, with a deadline for implementation set for the end of this year.

Beth explained the distinction between the moderate income housing requirements and the city's affordable housing plan. While the former is state-mandated and requires adherence to specific income thresholds—defined as households earning between $50,000 and $80,000 annually—the latter is a voluntary initiative aimed at addressing local housing needs. The city has been working with LRB to develop a comprehensive plan for utilizing allocated funds for affordable housing, which is not bound by state requirements.

The presentation highlighted the challenges facing Eagle Mountain in providing adequate moderate income housing, particularly in a market where prices have surged. Historical data indicated that while the city previously offered sufficient moderate income housing options, recent market fluctuations have made it increasingly difficult to find affordable units. The city aims to encourage the development of owner-occupied units to help residents build wealth, rather than solely relying on rental properties.

Beth outlined potential unit types for developers to consider, including flex homes, cottages, bungalows, and mixed-use units, as well as four-story condominiums. The city is seeking feedback on these options and the zoning regulations that would govern the implementation of the 10% requirement. The collaborative effort between the city council, developers, and the community is seen as crucial to successfully addressing the housing challenges faced by Eagle Mountain.