In a recent government meeting, community members expressed concerns regarding the lack of storage options in new housing developments, particularly those built by Habitat for Humanity. Residents highlighted that many homes feature only single-car garages, leading to clutter in yards and around properties as families resort to parking vehicles outside and using garages for storage.

The discussion revealed that while some storage accommodations for bicycles and toys will be made, the absence of garages poses challenges for residents, especially in Central Oregon where outdoor recreational equipment is common. The issue of exterior storage was emphasized, with residents noting that the clutter can detract from neighborhood aesthetics.

Officials acknowledged the difficulties posed by a 60% Area Median Income (AMI) cap, which complicates the construction of standalone homes. They mentioned that two storage facilities are available nearby, but residents would need to travel across the street to access them.

Concerns were also raised about potential enforcement of community rules regarding clutter and maintenance, with officials noting that the community's Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CCRs) would apply to all homes, regardless of ownership. The meeting highlighted the demographic challenges, with a significant portion of Habitat's future homeowners likely to be single-income households due to the income cap.

The discussion concluded with a clarification that no fencing would be installed around the new units, which may further influence the community's appearance and residents' privacy. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between developers and community members as they navigate the complexities of affordable housing in the region.