Calistoga Council discusses missing middle housing and potential zoning changes

The Calistoga City Council meeting on May 1, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding housing development and land use in the city. A significant topic was the concept of "missing middle" housing, which refers to a range of housing types that are affordable and accessible to a broader segment of the population. Council members expressed concerns about increasing density in certain areas, particularly near Centennial and River Lee, emphasizing the need to preserve open spaces.

Council Member Cooper highlighted the importance of maintaining open spaces, suggesting that if development is necessary, some areas could be converted to agricultural use to prevent overbuilding. The discussion also touched on the potential development of school district properties and the estimated number of housing units that could contribute to the city’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) targets. It was noted that Calistoga is currently short of its housing goals but is expected to meet them regardless of new developments.

City officials discussed the need for financial incentives to attract developers to create middle-income housing, as current regulations and costs may deter investment. The conversation included the challenges posed by state laws that limit the city’s ability to restrict growth based on water and sewer capacity. Council members acknowledged that while there are financial barriers to expanding infrastructure, it is possible with sufficient investment.

The council also explored the potential rezoning of the airport district, which could provide a significant opportunity for developing missing middle housing. This area is currently underutilized and could be transformed to meet housing needs while integrating with existing city services.

In conclusion, the council agreed on the importance of community engagement in the planning process and recognized that developing a framework for missing middle housing will require careful consideration and collaboration with residents and stakeholders. The discussions set the stage for future meetings focused on housing strategies and public input.