In a recent government meeting, Denton officials discussed a proposed amendment to the development code aimed at enhancing affordable housing options in the city. Leah Atkinson, the housing programs coordinator, presented a plan to introduce Section 212, which would establish nine different development incentives for residential projects that include affordable housing units.

The proposed incentives would allow developers to deviate from standard zoning requirements in exchange for committing to affordable housing. This includes adjustments to yard and setback requirements, building coverage, minimum lot dimensions, and parking reductions. Notably, developers could reduce parking requirements to one spot per affordable unit, which could significantly increase the number of units built.

Atkinson emphasized the importance of affordability, defining it as housing costs that do not exceed 30% of a household's income. In Denton, nearly half of households qualify as low income, highlighting the urgent need for affordable housing solutions. The proposal mandates that for every incentive utilized, developers must set aside 20% of their units at affordable rates for a minimum of 20 years, with specific allocations for extremely low, very low, and low to moderate income households.

The meeting also addressed the procedural aspects of the proposal. While the incentives would be approved at the staff level, the amendment to the development code would undergo a public hearing process, allowing for community input. City officials expressed optimism that these changes would streamline the development process and encourage more affordable housing projects, particularly in light of the challenges posed by existing zoning regulations.

As the city moves forward, public engagement efforts will continue through July and August, with a public hearing scheduled for August 14. If approved, the proposal could be presented to the city council on September 17, marking a significant step toward addressing Denton's affordable housing crisis.