Council discusses proposed multifamily infill code changes, including fee-in-lieu and affordability thresholds

Director Penny briefed the council on proposed amendments to the city's multifamily infill code and inclusionary zoning rules. The three elements presented were: exempting developments affordable to moderate-income households from the 15% inclusionary requirement; allowing fractional affordable-unit calculations to be resolved via a fee-in-lieu rather than mandatory rounding up; and aligning the ownership-affordability measure with some state programs at 38% of monthly income rather than the city’s current 30% standard.

Penny said the changes aim to reduce a development disincentive at small project sizes and to align definitions with state funding programs. Council members debated trade-offs: some said raising the affordability threshold to 38% could make projects more feasible for nonprofit developers seeking state funds, while others argued that 38% may not reflect true affordability in Langley given higher local costs. Council generally supported continuing the proposal through the Planning Advisory Board and targeted outreach to affordable- and market-rate developers before returning with recommended implementation details.