Town Council reviews affordable housing proposal with developer amid concerns over policy changes

The Jackson Town Council convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss significant proposals regarding affordable housing in the community. The meeting focused on a developer's proposal for a mixed-use housing project, which included a combination of affordable and workforce housing units.

The session began with council members expressing their support for the concept of increasing affordable housing but emphasized the need for thorough analysis before making any decisions. One council member articulated concerns about making policy decisions without adequate time for staff evaluation, advocating for a careful review of the proposal before voting.

Paul Anthony, the director of planning and building, clarified the specifics of the developer's proposal, which included 10,000 square feet designated for affordable housing and 30,000 square feet for workforce housing. He noted that the total number of units could fluctuate but would remain around 40,000. The council was urged to consider the implications of altering the proposal, as the developer could revert to their original plan if changes were made.

The developer reiterated their commitment to the proposal, highlighting the benefits of providing more affordable housing options. They indicated that if the current proposal was not accepted, they would default to providing workforce units at a different location. The discussion revealed a consensus among several council members that the proposal offered a net benefit to the community by increasing the availability of deed-restricted housing.

As the conversation progressed, council members debated the ratios of affordable to workforce housing, with some expressing a desire for a greater emphasis on affordable units. Despite differing opinions, a majority of council members indicated support for the proposal, recognizing it as a better alternative than the original plan.

The meeting concluded with a general agreement to move forward with the proposal, although some council members expressed a desire for the developer to return with a revised plan that could potentially offer more affordable housing options. The council's decision reflects ongoing efforts to address housing needs in Jackson, balancing community interests with development opportunities.