Planning staff briefed council on proposed amendments to implement House Bill 1998, which requires cities to allow certain 'coliving' arrangements where multifamily housing (six or more units) is already permitted. Under the state law, sleeping units (lockable rooms with private bathroom but shared kitchens) may be permitted subject to local design, health and safety standards that do not conflict with state building code.

Jim explained that proposed revisions would add a definition of "sleeping unit," clarify the distinction between sleeping units and dwelling units for density and fee calculations (sleeping units count as up to 0.25 dwelling units for density and up to 0.5 dwelling units for sewer connection fees per the bill), and place a 300‑square‑foot maximum size on sleeping units. Proposed code language would also consolidate boarding houses and dormitory terms into a coliving category, and will update parking rules so that developments within a half‑mile of major transit stops are not required to provide off‑street parking; when parking is required, the code would allow a capped ratio of 0.25 spaces per sleeping unit unless the bill prescribes a different approach.

Jim said the planning commission will continue public review and that staff aim to forward a recommendation to council for action so the city meets state deadlines. Council members asked clarifying questions about how the changes interact with existing household occupancy rules and building‑code requirements; staff noted that building code sets minimums for bathroom facilities and that the local code cannot impose stricter room‑size or layout requirements than state building code in ways that conflict with HB 1998.