Montpelier Council discusses 200 housing units aimed at seniors and zoning changes

Montpelier City Council members expressed enthusiasm for a proposed housing development that could bring hundreds of new units to the city, particularly aimed at addressing the needs of the senior population. During the April 9 meeting, councilor Jim Sheridan highlighted the urgency of expediting the approval process, emphasizing the demand among seniors for affordable housing options.

The developers, represented by Allen and Doug, presented plans that align with HUD's priority housing for seniors, which constitutes a significant portion of Montpelier's demographic. Sheridan noted that many seniors are eager to downsize, thus freeing up larger homes for younger families. He urged the council to consider changes to the current zoning regulations that trigger conditional reviews for developments, which he believes hinder timely construction.

Planning Director Mike Miller clarified that the current threshold for conditional use review is set at 15 units, which could be a barrier for larger projects. He assured the council that the city is open to revisiting these regulations to facilitate housing development. Miller indicated that the area in question is zoned for high-density housing, allowing for up to 27 units per acre, which could accommodate the proposed 200-plus units without significant hurdles.

Council members also discussed the need for a streamlined process to encourage developers to build in Montpelier. The conversation included potential adjustments to zoning laws that could reduce the time and complexity of obtaining permits. Miller noted that while the city has made strides in accommodating developers, further discussions are needed to refine the process and remove unnecessary barriers.

As the council anticipates further details from the developers in upcoming meetings, the focus remains on creating a more favorable environment for housing development in Montpelier, particularly for its aging population. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the city's housing landscape in the near future.