During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on a proposed development project that aims to increase residential density in the R3 zoning district. The project has opted for site standard 2, which permits a higher density of units compared to site standard 1. This decision has raised questions regarding its impact on the surrounding single-family homes, which typically feature larger lots.

Officials clarified that the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) allows for flexibility in site standards, enabling developers to achieve higher quality site and building designs while increasing density. The applicant's choice of site standard 2 is intended to accommodate a proposal that would result in 14 units per acre, a significant increase from the 3 to 6 units per acre typical of existing single-family homes in the area.

The development team emphasized that they are meeting all necessary site and building design standards, including additional landscaping and buffering to mitigate the impact on neighboring properties. Staff members expressed confidence that the project aligns with the intent of the UDO, despite concerns about the density increase.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing dialogue between developers and community members regarding the balance between growth and maintaining the character of existing neighborhoods. As the project moves forward, further discussions will likely address the implications of such density changes on local infrastructure and community dynamics.