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Planning commission backs Habitat for Humanity rezoning and site plan for duplex infill
Summary
The commission recommended rezoning six parcels to allow attached two‑family units and also recommended favorable site‑plan review for duplexes to be built by Habitat for Humanity Oakland County; Habitat said buyers will be at 80% area‑median income and receive homeownership education.
The Southfield Planning Commission voted Nov. 19 to forward favorable recommendations to city council for a rezoning (to RT, attached single‑family) and a corresponding site plan that would allow Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County to build multiple two‑family (duplex) units on West Haven/West Hampton parcels.
Planner materials explained the rezoning is intended to avoid a spot zone by assembling at least one acre and that the proposed RT zoning is consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan that calls for moderate‑density single‑family uses. Scott Milliken, a Habitat representative, said the project repeats a floor plan used successfully on Westland and that Habitat has a buyers pool for the work; he said typical buyers are targeted at 80% area‑median income and that Habitat provides financial counseling and maintenance training.
Public commenters asked whether property taxes would rise for neighboring homes and who qualifies for Habitat purchases; the planner said tax increases on adjacent properties would not occur until those owners sell or improve their properties and that the Habitat homes are individually owned units with resale restrictions. Milliken confirmed the program’s buyer criteria and advised interested residents to apply via habitatoakland.org.
Staff recommended favorable consideration for both rezoning and site plan review, noting the proposal meets RT standards, coordinates with adjacent sites, and provides infill homeownership opportunities. Commissioners expressed support for infill homeownership and moved favorable recommendations; both motions passed and were forwarded to city council for final action.
