San Joaquin City outlines new housing strategies including density bonuses and storm drain upgrades

The Santaquin City Planning Commission convened on January 28, 2025, to discuss several strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s infrastructure and housing development. The meeting focused on a series of proposed strategies that will guide the city’s planning efforts over the coming years.

The first item on the agenda was the discussion of Strategy 2, which centers on updating the storm drain plan. The commission unanimously agreed on the necessity of this strategy, emphasizing its importance regardless of the decision to proceed with it.

Next, the commission moved to Strategy 3, described as a "catchall" strategy. This strategy involves reducing minimum square footage requirements for residential units in the Main Street Residential (MSR) zone. The commission noted that last year, they successfully reduced the minimum size for studio apartments from 600 to 500 square feet. This year, they plan to implement similar reductions in the Main Street Commercial (MSC) zone, pending approval by August 1, 2025.

Strategy 4 was introduced as a highly recommended initiative concerning the city's Water Reclamation Facility (WRF). The commission plans to upgrade the WRF, with construction costs expected to be approved by August 1, 2025. This strategy is anticipated to span two years, allowing the city to maintain it for future planning cycles.

The fifth strategy discussed involved incentives for Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) that include moderate-income housing. The proposal allows for a 6% density increase if developers either provide deed-restricted moderate-income housing or ensure that 10% of the units meet minimum size requirements. This strategy aims to encourage the development of affordable housing options within the city.

Finally, Strategy 6 was presented, which includes two options for rezoning. The first option focuses on collaborating with landowners and developers to rezone properties near commercial or mixed-use areas for higher density or moderate-income housing. This strategy aims to facilitate growth and development in alignment with the city’s broader planning goals.

In conclusion, the Santaquin City Planning Commission's meeting highlighted key strategies that will shape the city’s development over the next few years. The commission's proactive approach to updating infrastructure and promoting affordable housing reflects its commitment to sustainable growth and community enhancement. The next steps involve finalizing these strategies and ensuring timely approvals to meet the outlined deadlines.