City Council reviews park fee exemptions for affordable housing development

In a recent meeting of the City of Middleton Housing Strategy and Finance Subcommittee, discussions centered on the impact of park fees on affordable housing developments. As the city grapples with increasing housing demands, the subcommittee explored ways to make housing more affordable for developers while ensuring that residents have access to necessary amenities like parks.

Currently, the city charges fees for various impacts, including parks, which can significantly increase the cost of new developments. The subcommittee acknowledged that while there is a provision in the zoning code that could potentially reduce or eliminate park fees for affordable housing, no formal waiver has been established. This has raised concerns about the affordability of housing projects, as developers face high park fees that could deter investment in affordable units.

A previous study conducted by Baker Tilly, in collaboration with the parks department, recommended a substantial increase in park fees. This proposal was reviewed by the council and the workforce housing committee, which suggested either full or partial exemptions for affordable housing developments. However, the discussion has stalled, with no further action taken by the council since its initial review.

The subcommittee noted that while there have been instances of specific properties receiving exemptions from park fees—such as the Elmwood Senior Housing project—these decisions have been made on a case-by-case basis rather than through a consistent policy. This lack of a clear framework may hinder the development of affordable housing in Middleton.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit the findings from the Baker Tilly report and to consider how the city can better support affordable housing initiatives. The subcommittee plans to follow up on the draft report and presentation to ensure that the council is equipped with the necessary information to make informed decisions moving forward.

As Middleton continues to address its housing challenges, the discussions around park fees highlight the delicate balance between funding community amenities and fostering an environment conducive to affordable housing development. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of housing in the city.