Council Committee of the Whole reviews draft updates to multifamily tax-exemption program (BMC 17.82)

The Committee of the Whole met March 10 for a work session on proposed updates to the city’s multifamily tax-exemption program (Bellingham Municipal Code Section 17.82). Staff presented the rationale for proposed updates to 8-year market-rate and 12- and 20-year affordable multifamily exemption options and sought council feedback on a draft ordinance.

Chris Behe, long-range manager with Planning and Community Development, delivered a lengthy presentation describing the proposed changes; the committee used the session to refine the draft ordinance before scheduling a public hearing. The item was informational and no formal action was taken; staff indicated that the draft ordinance will be revised and set for a public hearing and subsequent council consideration.

Nut graf: Changes to the multifamily tax-exemption program could affect incentives for housing development and the balance between market-rate and affordable housing options; this work session informed drafting of an ordinance that will proceed to public hearing.

Additional details

- Program elements discussed: 8-year market-rate exemption; 12- and 20-year terms for affordable multifamily incentives. - Next steps: staff will incorporate council feedback into a final ordinance and schedule a public hearing for council consideration. - Action taken: information and discussion only; no vote recorded.

Ending: Council members were directed to review the presentation materials available in the agenda packet and the recorded work session; staff will return with a revised ordinance and a public hearing date.