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Board members warn state 'starter home' bill could undercut local development rules
Summary
At the Feb. 5 meeting, the Largo Planning Board discussed HB 1143 (the 'starter home' act). Board chair and Mayor Brown said the bill would constrain local zoning tools — minimum lot sizes, setbacks and other controls — and could limit use of tools such as form‑based codes; staff said the board will continue advocacy and discuss the issue at a retreat.
Board discussion at the Feb. 5 meeting turned to pending state legislation referred to in the transcript as HB 1143, described by members as a "starter home" bill that would limit local zoning authority.
Chair Faustini said the proposed legislation would effectively “dismantle” some local zoning tools by imposing minimum lot sizes, 0‑side setbacks, and a 20‑foot rear setback, and that the changes could allow townhomes adjacent to existing single‑family houses regardless of local land‑use designations. Mayor Brown said the bill is being advanced as an answer to affordable‑housing challenges but warned it could remove local tools that the city uses to manage compatible development and protect neighborhood character.
Staff said the board and city officials have been in contact with state representatives and senators and will continue to communicate concerns. Jared Austin, the incoming planning manager, said the board will receive a poll of potential dates for a retreat where members can discuss responses and potential local code approaches (for example, form‑based codes) that focus on form and function rather than densities.
No formal action was taken; staff said the matter will be tracked and revisited as legislation moves through the state process.
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