The Jackson Town Council meeting on June 2, 2025, focused on the proposed Hitching Post Apartments project, which aims to provide essential housing for St. John's Health employees. The development will consist of a single three-story structure housing 72 units, including 22 one-bedroom, 48 two-bedroom, and 2 three-bedroom apartments. The project is designed to address the housing needs of healthcare professionals in the area, a pressing issue highlighted by the hospital's recruitment challenges.

Key discussions revolved around parking and pedestrian access. The project will include 108 parking spaces, with 76 on-site and 32 off-site, secured through a shared parking agreement with the hospital. However, concerns were raised about the lack of a crosswalk on East Broadway and continuous sidewalks to facilitate safe access to the hospital campus and shared parking areas. The council debated whether to require additional pedestrian infrastructure before approving the project.

Another significant topic was the proposed modifications to housing regulations. The applicant requested adjustments to the local income requirement for tenants, suggesting that the 75% local income rule should apply only to St. John's employees, not their entire households. The housing department recommended approval of this request, citing the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals in recruitment. Additionally, the applicant sought an exemption from the 60-day vacancy limit for units, which was met with mixed responses from the council. While the housing department did not support a blanket exemption, they indicated a willingness to consider requests on a case-by-case basis.

The council expressed concerns about setting precedents with these modifications, particularly regarding future developments that might seek similar exemptions. The planning staff emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency in housing regulations while addressing the specific needs of a major employer like St. John's Health.

In conclusion, the council's deliberations highlighted the balance between facilitating necessary housing for healthcare workers and ensuring compliance with existing regulations. The next steps will involve further discussions on pedestrian safety measures and finalizing the deed restrictions for the project, ensuring that the housing remains dedicated to workforce rental in perpetuity.