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Planning commission discusses EV parking standards, seeks Light & Power input
Summary
Commissioners reviewed a three-tier EV parking framework (EV capable, EV ready, EV installed), debated whether to require EV capable spaces in residential projects and asked staff to consult Light & Power and the housing commission on costs, utility capacity and implementation before returning with draft ordinance language.
Planning staff presented draft amendments that differentiate EV capacity into three tiers—EV capable (electrical capacity present), EV ready (infrastructure and conduit installed), and EV installed (charger hardware in place). The proposal would allow EV charging as an accessory use in many districts and give the commission options on how prescriptive to be about minimum percentages of EV‑capable or EV‑ready spaces.
"There are 3 types of EV readiness... capacity... readiness... and full capacity is having the hardware and actual EV sites," Leslie explained while walking commissioners through examples from Michigan and California. Staff said the recommendations were closer to other Michigan cities such as Ann Arbor rather than California-style mandates.
Commissioners voiced a mix of questions and concerns. One commissioner asked whether mandating EV capable spaces on all residential developments would increase construction costs and complicate affordable housing projects: "Do you want... what's that gonna mean for your affordable housing project if you have to make all these spaces EV capable?" Another asked for cost estimates and Light and Power's perspective on capacity and maintenance. Several commissioners favored allowing EV charging by right in many districts but urged staff to return with clearer definitions and cost breakdowns.
Panelists also discussed charger types and turnover: fast chargers encourage turnover but are expensive and impose different electrical demands; Level 1 and 2 chargers are cheaper and may suit downtown long‑stay parking. Commissioners asked staff to invite a representative from Light and Power (Nicole Van Ness) to present and to include utility capacity and cost estimates in a future memo.
No ordinance changes were adopted; staff will bring more detailed analysis and stakeholder input before setting any public hearings.
