4.1 BASR 02-24-2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Implementation Elk RKrer cwm:,e -r -v inn Key actions or strategies that are intended to accomplish the objectives for housing include: encouraging strong residential property maintenance, supporting safe and attractive neighborhoods, promoting green building techniques, ensuring new housing and housing renovation, respecting neighboring properties and the overall character of the neighborhood, and promoting opportunities for "aging in place" enabling existing residents to stay in their homes longer. Further implementation strategies include: Revise the Zoning Ordinance as necessary to ensure that any infiil development or further subdivision of large lots will not adversely affect the existing character of the neighborhood. Study the possibility of allowing accessory dwelling units in the City of Elk River to help promote affordable housing and to help those who may need physical assistance, including elderly residents. Ensure the City has adequate and appropriately zoned land to meet the changing housing needs of the community. Continue to monitor and enforre timely progress related to residential building permits. Do not allow building projects that have been started to go unfinished for an excessively long period. Study the need for, and if appropriate, implement a residential rehabilitation program using state funding, community development block grants (CDBGs), or other suitable resources to provide rehabilitation loans and grants for residents in need. Continue to monitor and eriforce home occupation ordinances in the city to ensure safe and healthy neighborhood conditions. In accordance with the policies of this Comprehensive Plan, coordinate the effective and cost effective extension of municipal sewer and water to residential areas that are not served by public utilities. To The maximum extent- feasible, ensure the preservation of existing natural features and promote the sensitive integration of natural features, such as wildlife corridors, into existing and proposed development. Support neighborhoods in their efforts to beautify their homes and neighborhoods. Identity and remove possible barriers in the zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations that discourage or prohibit the use of green building techniques andfor renewable energy sources. Study opportunities to provide incentives that encourage the use of ctrQPuilding tech_ngues and renewable energy sources, as appropriate. Incentives may Include expedited review time, reduction of 84 / Chapter 7. Housinc review fees, increased density, or administrative flexibility to grant minor variances (such as setback variances) that would support green buildmg ter piques an renewable energy sources. Review and modify ordinances as necessary to promote building compatibility with the site_ Far example, strive to ensure that development dues not unnecessarily remove mature trees or other desirable site features. Strive to identify, study, and map unique residential neighborhoods in Elk River. To the extent feasible, work with the neighborhoods to identify the qualities of the neighborhood that they would like to see preserved. As necessary, modify existing ordinances or develop guidelines to ensure that future renovations and development are consistent with the desircd neighborhood character. Before applying for the necessary development approvals, encourage the developer or landowner to conduct a neighborhood meeting to review proposed development, redevelopment, or renovations that my impact the neighborhood character. Offer meeting space at City Hall or other community facilities as a means to support this effort. Where guided in the Land Use Plan, promote the redevelopment of existing vacant or underutilized commercial property to include moderate to high density residential housing. In particular, promote mixed commercial and moderate to high density housing in the downtown area and near future transit hubs in the City. Ensure that housing is consistent with the desirable character of the area. Promote flexible development standards and innovative development techniques hat encourage development, redevelopment, and renovation of existing housing without jeopardizing the desirable character of the area. Study the feasibility and desirability at allowing multiple types of housing units in existing neighborhoods that are currently restricted to single family dwellings. For example, explore the possibility of allovving outright, or as a corAtional use, duplexes andior twin homes in single family districts. Conduct a housing market study based on the City's goals and future needs.