The City of Orem Planning Commission is gearing up for significant changes in housing strategy, as discussions during the July 16 work session highlighted the urgency of updating the city’s moderate income housing report. The commission is under pressure to adopt new strategies that align with recent legislative amendments, which could reshape the landscape of affordable housing in the area.

Key among the discussions was the introduction of new "super strategies" aimed at promoting homeownership and supporting first-time buyers. These strategies, mandated by state legislation, require cities to adopt specific plans to enhance affordable housing options. Currently, Orem has five strategies in place, but with the introduction of these new guidelines, the city could potentially reduce its obligations to just three strategies if it opts to utilize the existing fixed guideway stations as part of its planning framework.

The commission emphasized the importance of timely discussions, as the annual report on housing strategies is due by August 1. Failure to submit this report could result in financial penalties for the city. The planning team is working diligently to finalize a draft report and ensure compliance with state requirements.

In addition to the new strategies, the commission is also reviewing existing initiatives, such as the Housing Transit Reinvestment Zone (HTRZ) and affordable senior housing projects, which have already been established in Orem. These existing strategies will be evaluated alongside the new proposals to determine the best path forward for the city’s housing needs.

As the commission prepares for a public hearing on these matters, the focus remains on fostering a housing environment that is accessible and sustainable for all residents. The upcoming discussions will be crucial in shaping Orem's housing policies and ensuring that the city meets both community needs and state mandates.