Commission gives staff direction to draft 'missing middle' residential text amendments for SR-6 district

The Plant Commission on Tuesday discussed allowing a broader set of residential building types in the SR-6 single-family district — a concept commonly called "missing middle" housing — and expressed consensus directing staff to develop draft text amendments for future consideration.

Planner Bryce Hamburg outlined the current allowable types in SR-6 and explained how two-flats (two units stacked vertically) are permitted by right while duplexes, twin houses and townhouses are not. He described townhouses as attached two-story residences with individual access, and noted multiplex/apartment types differ by shared hallways or private stair access. "One of the things I also mentioned was considering maybe creating a new zoning district that would be more specifically tailored to areas that are generally by the downtown," Hamburg said, describing options to permit 2–4 unit structures compatible with neighborhood scale.

Commissioners expressed support for the concept and asked staff to return with proposed text amendments similar to prior redline work on setbacks. "I think looking at all these right now is a great option," one commissioner said, and another urged staff to present a draft amendment so the idea can move forward rather than stall. The commission did not take a formal roll-call vote on an ordinance that night; instead members gave staff direction and indicated consensus to proceed. Hamburg said he would prepare draft language and bring it back in a future meeting for formal consideration.