Council hears first reading to allow duplexes, twin homes, townhouses and accessory dwelling units in SR-6

City staff presented a first reading of a zoning ordinance amending the SR-6 residential district to expand permitted housing types, including twin homes, duplexes and townhouses of up to four units, and to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right where they meet code requirements.

Steve Barker said the change is intended to add flexibility to areas now limited largely to single-family homes or two-flats. "What will be allowed now that isn't today...will now be...twin home, duplex, and townhouses of up to 4 units," Barker said, and noted a redlined draft in the packet shows the specific additions. The ordinance would also explicitly permit accessory dwelling units — standalone or attached secondary units on a single lot — in more districts.

Barker and Mayor Lois Teastrick discussed the practical uses for ADUs, such as housing for a relative, and said the planning commission has discussed the changes for months. Barker described zoning language and examples (zero-lot-line and two-flat distinctions) and emphasized the city's intent to modernize the code to reflect current housing demand.

This was a first reading; Barker said the council will consider subsequent readings before adoption. Specific criteria and technical standards remain in the draft ordinance in the planning packet.