5.4. SR 07-12-2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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HRA Minutes Page 2 September 22, 2003 Mr. Harlicker discussed the Needs Analysis in his report to the HRA dated August 25, 2003. He stated that the City needs to make a policy decision regarding their role in assessing housing needs and goals; whether to serve as a mini-regional center for the area, or to meet local needs. He discussed the ratio of multi-family to single-family, and the ratio of townhouse units to single-family. Mr. Harlicker then reviewed staff's analysis of "affordable" housing. The following options were presented for consideration ff the City determines there is a need for additional housing: 1. Zone land appropriately to allow development of additional multi-family units. 2. Redevelopment of older dwellings for replacement with multi-family units. 3. Allow accessory or "mother-in4aw" apartments to single-family dwellings. 4. Amend the zoning code to allow higher denskies, and offer density bonuses if builders include affordable units in a development. 5. Establish a housing preservation and rehabilitation program. 6. Utilize tax increment financing to redevelop blighted residential areas and/or new construction of low and moderate-income housing. Chair Toth asked where the mobile homes were located that were mentioned in staff's report. Mr. Harlicker stated that some are in Wapiti Park and the others are scattered throughout the rural residential areas of the city. Chair Toth asked if mobile homes are still allowed. Mr. Harlicker explained that the City does allow them with restrictions such as placement on a permanent foundation. He noted that the homes that are coming into Elk River are generally doublewides and have the appearance of a traditional single-family home. Commissioner Leiser asked if the median values are comparable to market values. She fek that the median value may seem affordable but in reality the market value is not. Mr. Harlicker stated that the data was obtained from Sherbume County Assessor's office and that staff combined the assessed valuation of the building and land to determine the median value for the study. He stated that if the HRA was interested in a market value study, a great deal more research would be necessary. Commissioner Motin asked if the most recent Trott Brook Farms townhomes and Eull property was included in the housing inventory. Mr. Harlicker stated that all property that has been final platted was included. Chair Toth asked if the City is receiving inquires for affordable housing. He stated that it is difficult for the HRA to determine if the housing inventory is adequate or if they need to expand it. Director of Planning Michele McPherson stated that the Gty needs to make a determination whether or not they wish to provide a higher percentage of "affordable" or multi-family housing, and if so, review the options provided by staff to expand it, not let the market dictate what the City should do. Chair Toth asked how they can determine if there is a need for more affordable housing. Ms. McPherson stated that the City's policy makers need to establish a policy based on what percentage they feel is a good balance for the community.