The Town of Buena Vista Board of Trustees voted Nov. 25 to amend the town’s Unified Development Code to implement an expedited 90‑day review process required by Proposition 1‑23, a state program that opens funding for affordable housing projects.

Staff described a new section (proposed 6.8) that sets eligibility, prioritization and timing rules. Projects with 50% or more affordable dwelling units would be eligible for the fast‑track review. To meet state timelines, staff recommended some major site plans that qualify be handled administratively by staff, with an appeal to the board of trustees rather than scheduling a planning and zoning hearing that can delay decisions.

Trustees and planning staff discussed multiple safeguards: required neighborhood meetings, mailed notices, online posting of materials (trustees amended language to specify posting on the town website), and appeal rights. Planning and Zoning Commission members had expressed concern that removing a public hearing could limit face‑to‑face input; staff argued neighborhood meetings plus written comments produce a record that can be folded into staff findings. Several trustees pressed for clarity on the definition of “affordable housing,” which largely follows state AMI definitions and cannot be relaxed without risking program eligibility.

After deliberation and minor amendments (including specifying posting on the town website), trustees moved to adopt the ordinance amendments; the motion passed. Staff will post final language and incorporate the neighborhood‑meeting structure and appeal procedures.

Trustee comments noted the measure is intended to increase the town’s eligibility for state housing funds while preserving public notification and appeal mechanisms. Where possible, trustees asked staff to return with implementation details and to track any impacts on other town review timelines.