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Council considers release of 289 Jefferson St. from affordable‑housing restrictions
Summary
Council discussed a request to remove deed restrictions on 289 Jefferson Street (one of six condos) so an owner may sell; commissioners expressed concern about losing deed‑restricted units and proposed exploring tools (community development fund, bank assistance, Habitat for Humanity) to retain affordability.
The council discussed a request to release 289 Jefferson Street from the city's affordable‑housing program so the owner can sell the unit on the open market. Mayor Safford explained the request covers one of six condos on Jefferson and noted the city has processed similar releases in the past.
Commissioner Moran voiced a strong preference for retaining deed‑restricted units and said the council lacks a clear process and funding to reacquire such properties. The council discussed options including establishing a community development fund, loosening certain restrictions that impede sales, and coordinating with Habitat for Humanity and local banks to help buyers qualify. Staff said planning and housing staff will reconvene to develop approaches and consider revisiting standards and processes.
