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Council updates transportation impact-fee policy to support affordable housing and clarify credits for developer-built projects
Summary
Council updated Policy 1-08 to replace the 2014 project list, allow TIFFs on ADUs 750 sq ft and larger, clarify crediting when developers build listed projects or dedicate right-of-way, and authorize up to a 50% TIFF reduction for extremely low and very low-income restricted units. The policy changes passed unanimously.
The council unanimously adopted changes to Town Council Policy 1-08 on Oct. 7 that update the town’s transportation impact-fee (TIFF) framework. The changes replace an outdated 2014 project list, add clearer rules for crediting developers who build listed improvement projects or donate right-of-way, and align TIFF treatment with the town’s ADU ordinance by applying fees to accessory dwelling units 750 square feet or larger.
Importantly, the policy establishes a mechanism to reduce TIFFs by up to 50 percent for deeply affordable housing: units restricted to extremely low- and very low-income households. Housing advocates attending the meeting said even modest fee reductions can make small affordable projects financially feasible.
Nicole Burnham, director of parks and public works, said staff will not change TIFF rates in this action but will return with updated fee-calculation recommendations after a townwide traffic model is completed. The policy changes instead focus on project eligibility, credit rules and bringing the policy into alignment with existing ADU rules.
Marissa Salazar of SV@Home told the council the 50% TIFF reduction for extremely and very low-income units would help smaller affordable developments clear financial hurdles and fulfill the town’s housing-element commitments.
The council adopted the policy changes unanimously and directed staff to proceed with the administrative implementation and to return with updated fee-level recommendations informed by the forthcoming traffic model.
