Council addresses affordable housing challenges in resort county planning

The Summit County Council meeting on December 18, 2024, focused heavily on the ongoing issue of affordable housing in the region. Council members discussed the challenges of increasing housing supply in a resort area where demand continues to outpace availability, leading to rising prices that make living in the county increasingly difficult for many residents.

One council member highlighted the long-standing nature of the affordable housing debate, noting that while the state legislature suggests increasing supply to lower prices, the unique characteristics of Summit County complicate this solution. The council member pointed out that simply adding more housing units is not enough to significantly impact affordability, as the market continues to escalate.

A key proposal discussed involved a project that would include 340 units of affordable housing, with a ratio of 1 to 1.1 for affordable units to market-rate units. This project aims to address the community's needs while also adhering to existing inclusionary housing provisions, which require developers to contribute a percentage of affordable units when building new developments.

Concerns were raised about the location of affordable housing and its potential impact on existing neighborhoods. Some council members acknowledged the opposition to affordable housing projects in the past, particularly in areas like Highland Flats, where residents fear that new developments could devalue their homes. The discussion emphasized the need for careful planning and consideration of community sentiments when determining where to build new affordable housing.

The council also discussed the importance of integrating affordable housing with public transit options, noting that the proposed site would include a transit center and ample parking. This approach aims to create a mixed-use neighborhood that aligns with the goals of the Kimball Junction master plan, which seeks to enhance community livability.

In conclusion, the council's discussions underscored the complexity of addressing affordable housing in Summit County, balancing the need for more units with community concerns and market realities. The council plans to continue exploring solutions that align with the community's vision while addressing the pressing need for affordable living options.