In a recent government meeting, officials outlined a series of initiatives aimed at addressing housing affordability and accessibility in the city. Among the key proposals is Program H4, which seeks to waive or defer up to 50% of sewer and water fees for up to 120 lower-income housing units annually, as detailed in a settlement agreement.

Further discussions highlighted Program H8, which aims to update the development code to facilitate multifamily housing. This includes reducing parking standards and open space requirements, as well as increasing the minimum density in the R3 zone from 15 to 20 units per acre.

Programs 10, 11, and 12 were also introduced, focusing on the establishment of a local housing trust fund, rezoning efforts to create capacity for approximately 12,200 additional housing units, and a mixed-income ordinance that mandates new residential developments to allocate 5-10% of units as affordable housing. The city is reportedly already studying the implementation of this ordinance.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the preservation of existing lower-income housing through Program H13, which targets units at risk of losing their subsidies or deed restrictions in the next decade. Program H14 emphasizes the importance of monitoring and enforcing the mobile home rent review and stabilization ordinance, while also expanding outreach to residents.

Lastly, Program H16 aims to continue the city’s successful housing rehabilitation efforts, providing loans and grants primarily to lower-income residents, including seniors and those living in mobile home parks. The meeting concluded with a commitment to various programs focused on affirmatively furthering fair housing, underscoring the city’s dedication to improving housing equity and accessibility for all residents.