Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Klamath Falls council introduces residential code updates aimed at easing housing development
Summary
The council introduced by title a first‑reading ordinance (CDO 1‑TA‑26) to align local rules with state standards and reduce barriers to housing by allowing smaller lot divisions, middle‑housing land divisions and fewer conditional uses; the planning commission recommended the changes unanimously after public comment.
The Klamath Falls City Council on May 18 introduced a first‑reading ordinance to update the city's residential development code, a set of changes staff said are intended to bring local rules into line with recent Oregon legislation and to make new housing easier and less costly to build.
Planning manager Joe Wall summarized the package, telling councilors the amendment removes conditional uses, adds middle‑housing land divisions (similar to row homes), reduces certain minimum lot sizes and relaxes some parking requirements. Wall said the changes are meant to offer more options, not to require property owners to redevelop: "It's options more than anything, instead of being mandated," he said.
The planning commission reviewed the text amendment and unanimously recommended the findings that staff presented. During a public hearing, multiple residents and speakers supported the amendment, saying smaller lot options and lower administrative barriers would help create attainable housing and better reflect the city's historic development patterns. One public commenter urged the council to consider transportation limitations in much of Klamath Falls when modifying parking standards.
Councilor Angeli moved to accept the planning commission findings, and the council approved the findings and then voted to introduce the ordinance for first reading by title. The city manager read the ordinance title as "An ordinance approving community development ordinance text amendment 1‑TA‑26, residential code updates." No final adoption vote occurred; the item was advanced for later consideration and additional review as the state‑level grant program and a broader residential code effort continue.
Why it matters: Council and staff said the updates aim to reduce costs and barriers to new housing while preserving existing lots and homeowner choices. Supporters said the changes could unlock smaller, more affordable homeownership opportunities; one resident warned that reduced parking standards should be weighed against limited public transit outside the downtown core.
What comes next: The ordinance was introduced for first reading; further hearings, staff work tied to a state grant and subsequent council action are expected before final adoption.
