Following code hearings, Leavenworth Planning Commission members discussed potential changes to lot-coverage rules, ADU allowances and triplex/density measures intended to encourage infill housing.

Commissioners and staff debated whether to tie lot-coverage bonuses to the number of units (for example, higher coverage allowances for two or three units) and how that would interact with existing design and height standards. One proposal discussed during the meeting would increase allowable lot coverage when additional units are added (examples given: a 35% base coverage for a single unit, higher percentages for two or three units), though no final percentages were adopted by the commission at this meeting.

Staff and commissioners also discussed the practical constraints of small lot sizes in historic neighborhoods (several commissioners noted many lots are about 30 feet wide) and the interaction between lot coverage, building height and floor-area ratio (FAR). Commissioners flagged that changes to setbacks or coverage could be required to meet state housing goals but must comply with state law.

Commissioners asked staff to provide data and analysis on feasible development scenarios, including the limits created by lot size, coverage rules and the administrative deviation history. Staff said they would compile relevant GIS lot-size information and pull records showing recent administrative deviations and permits to help commissioners weigh tradeoffs.

The discussion also touched on permitting issues for multiple ADUs on a lot and whether adjustments to parking, access and design standards would be needed to make small-unit infill feasible. Staff noted building- and fire-code requirements and condominium/dwelling-type specifics can affect whether added units are practical in particular parcels.

Commissioners did not take final action but directed staff to return with data and options, including sample scenarios showing how coverage and unit counts would play out on typical local lots.

The commission indicated it will likely break this topic into smaller policy steps for future meetings and recommended staff provide comparative metrics and example buildable-site scenarios for the next review cycle.