In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed ordinance aimed at enhancing the process for tax abatements and affordable housing development in Detroit. The ordinance seeks to streamline the application process for both traditional abatements and a new program called Neighborly, which will provide a public-facing portal for applicants. This initiative is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is expected to be implemented in the coming years.

Key discussions included the potential need for staffing and software changes to support the ordinance's rollout. Officials are currently analyzing staffing requirements to ensure adequate support for tax abatements and compliance with existing affordable housing regulations. The ordinance also mandates quarterly reports to the city council, detailing projects that have completed applications and entered into affordability agreements, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability.

A fiscal impact study requested by the council president is underway, with expectations that it will be available by the time of the public hearing. This study will assess the financial implications of the ordinance, which aims to provide clearer guidelines for developers regarding the rates of affordability they can expect.

Concerns were raised about the ordinance's impact on existing underwriting processes. Officials assured that the proposed changes would not disrupt current operations within the assessor's office and that collaboration with the Chief Financial Officer's office has been ongoing to address any potential implications.

The ordinance is anticipated to significantly increase the availability of affordable housing in Detroit, with projections of adding approximately 1,500 new units annually. This initiative is seen as a crucial step in addressing homelessness and displacement, while also catering to the workforce housing needs of residents who fall into the \"missing middle\" income bracket. Overall, the ordinance is positioned as a transformative measure for the city's housing landscape.