Council approves contract for citywide housing study; staff to form steering committee

City council voted to authorize a contract with the consulting firm Community Scale to produce a citywide housing study intended to assess Hilliard’s housing needs, affordability gaps and policy options over roughly a 12‑month engagement.

Staff framed the study as a response to regionwide population growth that is outpacing housing production; staff said Hilliard represents about 1.66% of the Central Ohio population cited in recent studies and that regional projections imply significant new housing needs over the coming decade. Staff also described the concept of “missing middle” housing — duplexes, fourplexes and similar housing types — as a potential tool for expanding housing choice and affordability.

Why it matters: Council members said the study will inform future zoning work and the city’s response to regional housing pressure. Staff recommended creating a steering committee of residents and subject‑matter experts to guide the study and suggested soliciting applications for that committee.

Council discussion and staff commitments - Steering committee: Council asked that the steering committee consider geographic balance (ward representation), age and other demographic considerations; staff said such selection criteria and an application process can be part of the committee formation. One council member asked for residents from each ward and representation from nonprofits and schools. - Study content and outcomes: Council asked whether the study would provide recommendations as well as data. Staff said the intent is to produce actionable recommendations that can inform zoning updates and other strategies. - Timeline and next steps: Staff estimated the study would take about 12 months; council approved the contract and directed staff to solicit steering‑committee applications and return with membership recommendations for council consideration.

Details and limitations: Staff cited the consultant’s prior local work (including a recent Upper Arlington study) and said the Hilliard study would dovetail with future zoning code amendments. The presentation included regional home‑price trends and a general statement about projected units; staff did not provide a definitive single‑figure housing target for Hilliard in the meeting packet and referenced regional study materials. The contract authorization passed by roll call (7‑0).