In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the initiation of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) for the Whisper Valley project, a sustainable housing community located in Northeast Austin. The project, which spans over 2,000 acres, aims to provide more than 7,500 housing units, including both single-family and multifamily options, alongside commercial spaces and extensive open areas, including a 600-acre Signature Park.

Brendan Kennedy, program manager with the housing department, outlined the significance of the PUD amendment, which is necessary for the project to utilize the city's smart housing program. This program is designed to enhance the availability of affordable housing by offering incentives such as fee waivers. Currently, the PUD is required to allocate 10% of its units for affordable housing, with ownership units priced at 80% of the median family income (MFI) and rental units at 60% MFI.

The council's discussion highlighted the complexities of city funding regulations, particularly in areas designated as limited purpose jurisdiction, which restricts the use of city funds unless explicitly authorized through a PUD amendment. This stipulation is crucial for developers seeking to apply for smart housing certification within the PUD.

Council members expressed support for the initiative, with discussions focusing on the potential for similar PUDs to seek smart housing fee waivers in the future. The committee unanimously recommended that the PUD amendment be forwarded to the full council for further consideration, marking a significant step towards advancing affordable housing solutions in the region.

The meeting also included a standing item for planning discussions, indicating ongoing efforts to refine policy priorities before they reach the full council.