Kenmore City Council approves affordable housing development and zoning amendments

The City of Kenmore, Washington, held a significant meeting on April 3, 2025, to discuss the upcoming State of the City Address and address pressing housing issues. The meeting highlighted the city’s commitment to tackling the regional housing crisis through various initiatives aimed at increasing affordable housing options.

The council announced the development of a new project that will include 103 affordable rental units, comprising a mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units, along with 18 affordable ownership units. This project received approval for a purchase and sale agreement, marking a crucial step toward its realization.

Mayor Herving emphasized the importance of addressing the housing crisis at all levels, including the need for "step housing," which encompasses shelter, transitional housing, emergency housing, and permanent supportive housing. These options are vital for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness, particularly given the rising housing costs in the region.

To align with Washington State law, the city plans to amend its zoning regulations to facilitate emergency and supportive housing. An advisory committee has been established to provide recommendations on zoning and regulatory amendments related to step housing, with eight members recently appointed to assist in this effort.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the concept of "missing middle housing," which refers to housing types that fall between single-family homes and multi-family units, such as duplexes, triplexes, and townhomes. The city is required to implement development codes to expand the types of housing permitted in residential zones, as mandated by House Bill 1110. Furthermore, regulations concerning accessory dwelling units (ADUs) must be adopted by June 2025, in accordance with House Bill 1337.

The planning commission is currently reviewing draft regulations, with expectations to present these to the council between April and June. The city aims to meet its housing targets while providing diverse housing options that can accommodate residents of varying needs, including those looking to downsize without leaving their homes.

Overall, the meeting underscored Kenmore's proactive approach to addressing housing challenges and ensuring that the community can adapt to the evolving needs of its residents. The council's commitment to these initiatives reflects a broader goal of fostering a more inclusive and sustainable housing environment in the city.