In a recent government meeting, significant revisions to a multifamily workforce housing project were discussed, leading to a positive shift in its evaluation score. The project, which initially faced penalties for not meeting certain architectural and storage requirements, has undergone several modifications that align it more closely with local policies.
Key changes include the project's compliance with open space requirements, now exceeding the mandated 30% by providing 38%. The applicant has also updated their material selections to incorporate natural wood accents alongside fiber cement siding, addressing previous concerns about architectural compatibility. These adjustments have allowed the project to avoid negative points under relevant policies.
The project has also improved its interior storage area, surpassing the 5% requirement, which has led to the removal of negative points previously assigned. Additionally, the site plan has been refined to enhance accessibility, including relocating the dumpster for easier resident access and ensuring parking spaces meet setback requirements.
A notable highlight is the project's commitment to being an all-electric development, marking it as the first privately developed multifamily project to pursue this energy-efficient standard. This initiative has garnered positive points under energy conservation policies.
Overall, the project now boasts a passing score of positive two, with points awarded for architectural compatibility, recreation connections, landscaping, and energy conservation. Despite still facing penalties for exceeding the recommended building height, the revisions have positioned the project favorably for approval. Staff members are recommending that commissioners vote in favor of the project at the final hearing, reflecting a consensus on its improved compliance and community benefits.