The City of Moab's Planning Commission meeting on May 8, 2025, focused on proposed regulations for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in new multi-family dwellings. The discussions highlighted the importance of preparing for the growing demand for EV charging capabilities in residential areas.

The proposed regulations suggest that new multi-family buildings with three or more units should include at least 10% of parking spaces as EV capable and another 10% as EV ready. This means that while no chargers need to be installed immediately, the necessary electrical infrastructure must be in place to support future installations. The goal is to ensure that residents, particularly those who may not own their homes, have access to EV charging options.

Commission members discussed the potential cost implications of these requirements, noting that they would primarily affect multi-family dwellings where residents have limited control over charging infrastructure. An exemption is proposed for projects facing significant costs related to electrical transformer upgrades, aiming to alleviate financial burdens on developers.

Additionally, the regulations would not impose extra parking requirements beyond what is already mandated, ensuring that the new EV spaces are proportionate to existing parking needs, including accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The commission also considered incentives for single-family homes undergoing electrical upgrades to encourage the installation of EV charging capabilities.

Overall, the proposed regulations reflect Moab's commitment to sustainability and adapting to the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles, while also addressing the practical concerns of developers and residents alike. The commission plans to continue refining these proposals in future meetings.