In a recent government meeting, officials discussed strategies to enhance middle and workforce housing as part of the county's strategic plan. The board of commissioners has tasked the planning department with exploring modifications to existing codes to increase flexibility in housing development, particularly focusing on smaller lot sizes and the potential for individual ownership of duplexes and triplexes.

The discussion highlighted the rising costs of housing, with construction expenses for typical subdivisions reaching around $90,000 per lot, which significantly contributes to the overall price of homes. Officials proposed reducing minimum lot sizes to facilitate the construction of more affordable housing options. Currently, the county's minimum lot size is set at 10,000 square feet, while the city of Klamath Falls has a minimum of 5,000 square feet. The aim is to align these standards to encourage denser development and provide more affordable housing alternatives.

The meeting also addressed the challenges posed by existing infrastructure, noting that many areas within the urban growth boundary lack essential services such as water lines, which complicates new developments. Officials expressed the need for better coordination with the city to ensure that infrastructure can support increased density, particularly for multi-family units.

Additionally, the concept of zero lot lines for duplexes and triplexes was discussed, which could allow for more efficient use of land and provide lower entry points for potential homeowners. This approach aims to create a more diverse housing market that accommodates various income levels, particularly for essential workers in the community.

The planning department is set to further investigate these proposals and will seek input from the planning commission to determine the best path forward. The overarching goal is to create a housing environment that supports a range of income levels and prevents local workers from being priced out of the housing market.