Apple Valley's City Council is grappling with significant housing legislation that could reshape local land use and development. During the March 27, 2025, meeting, council members discussed four key bills currently under consideration in the Minnesota legislature, each aimed at increasing housing production and affordability but raising concerns about local control.
The most contentious proposal is the Minnesota Starter Home Act, which would effectively eliminate single-family zoning by mandating that cities allow at least two units on any single-family lot. This bill would also reduce minimum lot sizes significantly, from Apple Valley's current 11,000 square feet to just 5,400 square feet for duplexes. Additionally, it would allow for up to 80% lot coverage, a drastic increase from the current limit of less than 40%. The bill's provisions would limit the city's ability to impose parking requirements, potentially leading to developments without adequate parking spaces.
Another significant piece of legislation, the More Homes Right Places Act, would require Apple Valley to upzone 50% of its residential areas to accommodate higher-density housing options like townhomes and duplexes. This bill also eliminates minimum parking requirements and restricts the city's ability to enforce local design standards, further diminishing local governance over development.
The Transforming Main Street Act would mandate that all cities permit multifamily and mixed-use developments in commercially zoned areas, with limited local review for projects under 300 units. This bill would also allow for taller buildings in commercial districts, up to 75 feet, while prohibiting cities from considering traffic and noise concerns during project evaluations.
Council members expressed apprehension about the shift towards administrative approval processes, which would limit public input and reduce the role of local planning commissions. The proposed changes could lead to legal challenges due to contradictory language within the bills.
As these discussions unfold, the City Council is weighing the potential impacts of these housing bills on the community's character and infrastructure. The council's next steps will involve continued monitoring of the legislation and advocating for local control in land use decisions.