Santaquin council adopts moderate-income housing strategy, opts to allow detached ADUs in R-15

Santaquin ' The Santaquin City Council on Feb. 4 approved the city's moderate-income housing plan strategies and selected Strategy 1 Option 1, which would allow detached accessory dwelling units in the R-15 (residential) zone pending ordinance drafting and the required legislative process.

Planning staff presented multiple strategy options intended to meet state moderate-income housing reporting requirements. The planning commission held a public hearing and recommended Option 1 for Strategy 1 and supported strategies 2 through 5 as drafted. Councilmembers voted to adopt strategy 1, option 1 and the additional strategies, noting that ordinance drafting and further public process are required before any zone change takes legal effect.

Why it matters

The state requires cities to report actions or strategies that increase housing affordability and options. Council members and staff said allowing detached ADUs in R-15 would provide an option for more housing choices without upzoning large areas; staff cautioned that permitting ADUs in a zone does not remove other subdivision, setback and utility requirements and that applicants must still meet technical standards.

Key points from the meeting

- Strategy 1 Option 1: Allow detached ADUs in R-15 (selected). Councilmembers said the option offers the quickest chance of near-term implementation for residents who have expressed interest. - Other Strategy Options: Adjust setbacks and hold additional public outreach (options 2 and 3 mentioned); a special-use permit pathway (option 4) was discussed as an alternative for zones not typically allowing detached ADUs. - Planning process: Staff will draft the implementing ordinance (timing noted as before August to meet state reporting needs). The planning commission and staff updated metrics and statistics in the housing element as part of the amendment.

Vote and next steps

Council approved the moderate-income housing plan strategy selection (roll call affirmative). Staff will prepare the implementing ordinance to allow detached ADUs in R-15, coordinate public hearings as required and include the changes in the city's state report on moderate-income housing.

Ending

The action sets a policy direction to encourage smaller-scale housing options; specific regulations, setbacks and permit processes will be addressed in subsequent ordinance drafting and public hearings.