Council approves rezoning of 1.68 acres in Washington Heights to allow two affordable homes

The Fremont City Council on June 30 approved Ordinance 57-47, rezoning 1.68 acres in the Washington Heights 6th Addition from R-1 (low-density residential) to R-2 (low–medium residential), clearing the way for construction of attached single-family duplexes that the developer says will add two new homes (four units) to the neighborhood.

Planning Director Jeff Ray told the council the request converts previously platted attached-unit lots to R-2 to allow slightly smaller lots (proposed lots about 4,800 square feet) and that staff recommended approval with a condition requiring drainage swales be preserved by easement and that each building permit include a drainage plan. "Staff recommends approval," Ray said.

Corey Christiansen, the project applicant, described the units as 0-entry, two-bedroom, two-bath homes intended for young professionals and people downsizing. "We have a great project," Christiansen said, showing photos of comparable units built nearby and saying the developer will work with JEO and city reviewers to meet drainage requirements.

Neighbors pressed the council for stronger assurances on drainage. "This rezoning proposal would allow for the construction of two additional affordable homes, providing housing for four more families," said Anna Young Hans, who asked the council to be confident that known drainage and flooding issues have viable solutions and realistic timelines before approving zoning changes. Longtime resident Gloria Triggs submitted photos and warned that existing ditches and farming practices have impeded drainage in the area.

Council debate focused on whether the proposal aligns with prior plats, parking and drainage mitigation, and the broader effects of recent UDC (Unified Development Code) changes. Councilman Horner and other members emphasized the need to protect neighbors while accommodating affordable housing.

Councilman Peterson moved to approve the ordinance. After recording a 6–1 vote for first reading and then suspending the rules (6–1) to allow final reading because of construction-season timing, the council cast its final vote, and Ordinance 57-47 was adopted (final vote recorded 7–0). The ordinance amends the zoning map to rezone the parcels in Washington Heights and includes standard severability and appeal provisions. The developer and staff said the project will require grading permits and drainage plans at the building-permit stage.

Next steps: the project will proceed to permitting; the council said drainage easements and permit-required drainage plans will be conditions the city will enforce as permits are reviewed.