Lakewood commission debates MFTE extension and RTA expansion; recusals, lack of quorum prevent vote

The Lakewood Planning Commission debated updates to the city’s Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) program and possible expansion of Residential Target Areas (RTAs) on April 2, 2025, but took no formal action after commissioners recused themselves and the meeting lost quorum.

Staff said there are two code amendments under consideration: an administrative clarification to the MFTE application process and a proposal to allow MFTE projects within the Central Business District (CBD) that lie outside the city’s tax‑increment area to qualify for a 12‑year property‑tax exemption. Planning staff member Ms. Newton told commissioners the changes are intended to help the city meet growth targets and to make the application process clearer; staff also presented maps of four candidate residential target areas (CBD, Springbrook, Oak Brook and Tilikum) and noted that property owners and nearby parcels were notified of hearings in February.

Public commenters raised objections to parts of the RTA proposal and warned about local impacts. Christina Kloss,…