Longmont residents push for missing middle housing over apartment complex annexation

During the Longmont City Council's regular session on January 28, 2025, community members voiced strong concerns regarding a proposed annexation and development plan for 310 rental apartment units at 8902 Quail Road. Residents expressed a growing frustration with the trend of large apartment complexes dominating new housing developments, questioning the lack of focus on "missing middle housing" options, such as duplexes and townhomes, which could better integrate with existing neighborhoods.

John, a local resident, highlighted that many new developments are large-scale apartment blocks, which he argued do not align with the community's needs for more diverse housing types. He emphasized that missing middle housing could provide a more community-oriented alternative while still addressing the demand for higher density and affordability. John urged the council to deny the annexation request, suggesting that approving it would signal to developers that Longmont prioritizes profit over community needs.

Pam Prairie, another resident, echoed these sentiments, noting that since 2016, Longmont has seen a significant increase in multi-unit residential units, with a stark contrast in the number of single-family homes being built. She pointed out that the current apartment vacancy rate in Longmont is around 4.9%, indicating a healthy market, while the availability of single-family homes is critically low, at less than 1%. Prairie called for the council to explore creative solutions for affordable housing that would allow residents to build equity.

Conrad Kowalik raised concerns about the density of the proposed development, arguing that the area is already saturated with rental units, which could exacerbate traffic congestion and compromise safety. He urged the council to reconsider the type of housing needed in the community, advocating for options that allow residents to purchase homes rather than solely focusing on rental apartments.

The meeting underscored a clear message from residents: there is a pressing need for a balanced approach to housing development in Longmont that prioritizes community integration and diverse housing options. As the council deliberates on the annexation proposal, the voices of concerned residents highlight the importance of aligning development with the community's long-term goals for housing affordability and neighborhood compatibility.