City Council pushes for new housing development to tackle crisis

During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on a proposed zoning change aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis in the city. The project under consideration seeks to rezone a property to R-17, which is designated for urban low residential housing. This change is part of a broader strategy adopted by the council to encourage higher density development.

The proposal highlights that the area has seen significant changes since many homes were built in the 1970s and 1980s. The developers emphasized that they are not seeking to maximize the density allowed under the R-17 zoning, nor are they fully utilizing the existing zoning potential. Instead, they aim to comply with updated design standards that differ from those established decades ago.

One notable design standard limits homes to a single-car garage, which has raised questions about parking. The developers assured that their plans meet all city requirements for residential and guest parking, incorporating both driveways and public street parking.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to adapting its housing policies to meet current needs while balancing community concerns about density and design.