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Council extends interim R‑7 zoning ordinance to continue allowing townhomes
Summary
Council voted 6‑0 to waive the two‑reading rule and adopt Ordinance No. 004/2026, extending interim zoning amendments that permit townhomes in the R‑7 district for another six months while staff finalizes middle‑housing code changes.
The Monroe City Council unanimously approved an emergency extension of an interim zoning ordinance on June 9 to keep townhomes permitted in the R‑7 residential district while staff completes a permanent middle‑housing code.
Planning staff (Miss Morero) explained the interim ordinance, originally adopted Dec. 2, 2025, adds a permitted use column for attached dwelling units in the R‑7 district, establishes bulk and density standards (lot dimensions, setbacks, lot coverage), and includes design standards tailored to townhomes. Staff said the interim ordinance was set to expire June 10 and requested an emergency extension so the city’s permanent middle‑housing code can be refined and returned to the planning commission and council in September.
Council clarified that accessory dwelling unit (ADU) height standards are governed by the separate ADU code (maximum 35 feet) and are not changed by this interim extension. Council Member Gamble moved to waive the council rule requiring two readings of an ordinance; Council Member Hamford seconded and the motion passed 6‑0. Council then moved to adopt Ordinance No. 004/2026, extending the interim zoning amendments; that motion also passed 6‑0.
The ordinance preserves the interim townhome allowances while staff incorporates public and Planning Commission feedback into a permanent middle‑housing code expected back before council in September.
