In a recent government meeting, officials outlined significant changes to local housing regulations aimed at increasing affordable housing options in Olympia. The proposed amendments include allowing up to four units per lot, contingent on at least one unit being designated for affordable housing. This initiative is part of a broader effort to comply with state mandates while tailoring solutions to the city's unique needs.

Key components of the plan involve establishing a covenant that would restrict affordable housing units for a period of 50 years, ensuring long-term availability. Additionally, the city is set to revise processing standards for residential developments, including administrative and board-level design reviews, to streamline the approval process.

A notable aspect of the discussion was the introduction of \"unit lot subdivisions,\" a new category required by state law that the current local code does not address. This provision will allow for the subdivision of multi-family units, such as duplexes and triplexes, which could facilitate more diverse housing options.

The meeting also highlighted the integration of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations into the housing strategy. The city will be required to permit two ADUs per lot, expanding where these units can be located beyond just single-family homes. Officials are considering limiting the use of ADUs for short-term rentals and reviewing design standards to ensure they align with existing building codes.

City leaders emphasized the urgency of adopting these changes locally to avoid state preemption of local zoning codes. They acknowledged the challenges faced by affordable housing developers in Olympia and expressed interest in engaging with them for recommendations on improving the building process.

As the city prepares for the next phase of this housing initiative, officials plan to create informational materials to help the public understand the changes and their implications. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration with community stakeholders to enhance housing accessibility in Olympia.