City tackles housing crisis with new density regulations
November 08, 2024 | Essex Junction City, Chittenden County, Vermont
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In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant amendments to residential density limits aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis. The proposed changes are primarily in response to the 2023 Home Act, which mandates municipalities to permit multi-unit housing—up to four units per lot—wherever water and sewer services are available. This legislation is expected to impact most of the city.
Currently, certain zones, such as the MF 3 zone, restrict the number of units to three per lot, which contradicts the new requirements. The meeting highlighted the need to update these regulations to facilitate a smoother transition in density from the city center to lower-density residential areas. The proposed amendments would eliminate existing incremental lot size requirements that currently limit the number of residential units allowed on larger lots, thereby increasing potential housing density.
The planning commission emphasized that the current regulations create an illogical drop in density between the city center and outer areas, which is counterproductive given the housing crisis. By removing these restrictions, officials believe they can alleviate barriers to small-scale housing developments and better align zoning with community needs.
Additionally, the meeting addressed adjustments to site dimensional and design standards for small-scale developments. These changes are inspired by state-level initiatives aimed at promoting \"missing middle\" housing—housing types that fall between single-family homes and larger multi-family buildings. The proposed adjustments include reducing minimum front yard setbacks and clarifying design standards for triplexes and fourplexes.
The planning commission is optimistic that these changes will not only comply with state mandates but also enhance the livability and accessibility of housing options within the community. The meeting concluded with a call for further community engagement to ensure that the proposed changes meet the needs of residents while fostering sustainable growth.
Currently, certain zones, such as the MF 3 zone, restrict the number of units to three per lot, which contradicts the new requirements. The meeting highlighted the need to update these regulations to facilitate a smoother transition in density from the city center to lower-density residential areas. The proposed amendments would eliminate existing incremental lot size requirements that currently limit the number of residential units allowed on larger lots, thereby increasing potential housing density.
The planning commission emphasized that the current regulations create an illogical drop in density between the city center and outer areas, which is counterproductive given the housing crisis. By removing these restrictions, officials believe they can alleviate barriers to small-scale housing developments and better align zoning with community needs.
Additionally, the meeting addressed adjustments to site dimensional and design standards for small-scale developments. These changes are inspired by state-level initiatives aimed at promoting \"missing middle\" housing—housing types that fall between single-family homes and larger multi-family buildings. The proposed adjustments include reducing minimum front yard setbacks and clarifying design standards for triplexes and fourplexes.
The planning commission is optimistic that these changes will not only comply with state mandates but also enhance the livability and accessibility of housing options within the community. The meeting concluded with a call for further community engagement to ensure that the proposed changes meet the needs of residents while fostering sustainable growth.
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