In a recent government meeting, city planners discussed a proposed zoning change from MR3 to SR5 for a rectangular property located in the Roosevelt neighborhood. The property, measuring approximately 50 by 140 feet, is intended for the development of twin homes, a configuration previously utilized in other areas of the city.

Planning staff reported that a public meeting was held to inform local property owners and the Roosevelt Neighborhood Association about the proposed changes. Although no neighbors attended, the president of the association met with the developer, Brandon Rayboin, to discuss the project and its alignment with the city’s core neighborhoods plan. Staff expressed confidence that the proposed development meets the objectives outlined in the plan.

The discussion also highlighted the differences between duplexes and twin homes. While duplexes consist of two units on a single lot owned by one person, twin homes allow for individual ownership of each unit, promoting homeownership opportunities. The developer aims to construct these twin homes independently, without city financing.

Concerns were raised regarding the necessity of driveways and parking requirements under the SR5 zoning designation. Staff confirmed that driveways are required, and the design could accommodate either one or two driveways depending on the layout.

The meeting also touched on the historical context of the zoning designation, noting that the area was previously zoned for single-family residences before transitioning to MR3 under a revised land development code in 1998. Staff indicated that the current zoning may not reflect the neighborhood's needs, suggesting that SR5 zoning would be more appropriate for the area.

Overall, the proposed zoning change aims to enhance housing options in the neighborhood, aligning with broader city goals to address the \"missing middle\" housing needs, which encompass a range of unit types from two to nine units. The commission will continue to evaluate the proposal in light of community feedback and planning objectives.