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HAB weighs zoning overlay, density recommendations and ADU grant outreach
Summary
The Housing Advisory Board discussed overlay-district recommendations, reaffirmed a prior density-bonus suggestion, and explored joining a state ADU grant program and a public education effort; staff clarified residential use is allowed in the commercial district and described parking-minimum constraints.
Board members revisited an overlay zoning proposal and density-bonus recommendations that the HAB had already submitted to council.
Fred Rowlandhagen, the city staff liaison, told the board that residential use is already permitted in the commercial zoning district, which means the Lafond/Paragon site can proceed without a zoning change. Fred also said the overlay proposal primarily targets parking minimums, and noted the city previously adjusted parking rules in response to state requirements. "Residential use is permitted in that zoning district," he said. "And that's why Paragon can develop its project on the Lafund site because residential use is permitted in that zoning district."
Members said it would be useful to discuss Amy's written materials when more board members are present. Crystal Carr urged care to avoid the perception that zoning changes are designed to benefit a single project, asking the board to be "really careful about making sure we are not in any way, whether it's perceived or actual, like, making things better for this one particular build."
The HAB also discussed outreach and education on affordable housing and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Nate, the city council liaison, said the state ADU grant program manager offered to present to the HAB and that the grant window runs from Aug. 3 to Aug. 31; he said the city would need to be a sponsoring/supporting jurisdiction for the HAB to benefit from the program. Nate offered to help facilitate contact with the program manager.
Board members proposed adding an informational session to the next meeting or convening a special session because the grant window can be short; the group's ADU-related education could also support broader acceptance for accessory dwelling units and other housing tools. The board agreed to circulate Nate's materials and to follow up at the next meeting when more members are present.
No formal vote was taken; members planned to reconvene the discussion with Amy and Electra/Elektra (URA) present to coordinate HAB recommendations with URA perspectives.
