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Committee weighs density as the prime tool for local affordability
Summary
Members argued that higher density reduces per-unit infrastructure costs and can lower housing costs, while recognizing the county lacks city-level services needed for concentrated affordable housing; a participant noted multifamily currently represents roughly 17% of housing in the city.
Committee members discussed housing-density trade-offs and agreed that, at the county level, increasing housing density is the primary lever to reduce per-unit infrastructure and service costs. Staff explained that higher unit counts share the cost of roads and utilities, which can lower housing prices compared with sprawling low-density development.
A participant summarized the local housing mix: "17% to be exact," when referencing the city's share of multifamily housing, and the committee debated where to locate higher-density zones inside the Greater Rigby area so that services and transit needs can be met. Members also noted that some forms of subsidized affordable housing typically belong within cities that can provide jobs, transit and healthcare access.
