Ridgeway planners present draft 2026 housing action plan and water‑supply element; public workshop set

Points Consulting gave Ridgeway council a detailed look at a draft 2026 Housing Action Plan and an accompanying water‑supply element, outlining five goal groups from regulatory reforms to workforce housing and long‑term affordability strategies.

"We're here to give you an update on where we're at on this housing and action plan and water supply element," the consultant said during the presentation. The consultants said the draft follows Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) guidance and includes an implementation matrix that assigns parties, timeframes and measurable indicators. They recommended a 30‑day public review and noted a community open house scheduled for Aug. 13 in the Decker Community Room.

Councilors and residents raised timing and priority questions — particularly whether workforce housing measures should be moved from long‑term to short‑term actions. Speakers suggested options including land banking, community land trusts, accessory dwelling unit incentives and deed‑restriction models to preserve local occupancy. Staff emphasized the draft includes a water supply element and stressed that the town has guiding documents and a conservation plan to inform growth scenarios through 2050.

The consultants said they will incorporate feedback from the steering committee and public comments before filing a final draft for DOLA courtesy review, aiming to complete the plan by mid‑October. The council encouraged continued community engagement and follow‑up comments by email to the consultants.