Council discusses ordinance for balanced R2 developments in Baton Rouge

In a recent Livingston Parish Ordinance Meeting, council members engaged in a robust discussion about the future of residential and commercial development in the area. A key focus was on the proposed regulations for R2 developments, which aim to ensure that new housing projects are part of planned residential developments that include a mix of housing types.

Councilman John Manges emphasized the importance of integrating lower-priced housing within larger developments to reduce stigma and enhance community cohesion. He argued that by including a variety of home sizes and prices within the same neighborhood, residents would benefit from shared amenities and services, such as schools and maintenance of common areas. This approach, he suggested, could help foster a more inclusive community while addressing the growing demand for affordable housing.

The council also discussed the need for a more structured approach to development, with specific guidelines on the types of commercial establishments that should accompany residential projects. Members expressed concern that without clear stipulations, developments could lead to an oversaturation of residential units without the necessary commercial infrastructure to support them.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the requirement for developers to submit a concept plan when requesting zoning changes. This plan would provide a clearer vision of how a proposed development fits into the broader community and ensure that decisions are made with a comprehensive understanding of potential impacts.

As the council prepares to revisit these discussions, there is a clear commitment to shaping the future of Livingston Parish in a way that balances growth with community needs. The next steps will involve gathering more examples of successful development plans from other parishes and refining the proposed ordinances to better reflect the goals of the community.