February 9, 1995 Steering Committee Minutes

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Steering Committee Minutes February 9, 1995 Page 5 move -up housing, executive housing, etc. Based on the City's current percentage of apartments, the trailer park would not have to be replaced. Mary Eberley questioned at what point the City needs to consider rehab housing. Steve stated that discussion on rehab will be part of the executive summary issues. Discussion followed regarding land values and affordable housing. Dick Hinkle stated that the average home value rose approximately $5,000 last year. He noted that increased demand influences the rising home values. Arne Engstrom stated that from the County's perspective, this has a positive impact on the tax burden for rising expenses. He explained that a younger population creates a heavy tax burden for the County's residents. There is more demand for services such as schools and law enforcement. Barb Miracle, resident, expressed her concern that there is a lack of affordable housing for younger senior citizens in the community. She suggested that there could be more one -level, semi -private twinhome or townhome type housing, with an adjacent yard, and maintenance -free as for as repairs, snow removal and mowing are concerned. Steve Ach outlined vacancy rate statistics for Elk River and surrounding communities as shown in Exhibit 5. He noted that the multi -family vacancy rate is only 2 percent. He also referred the Committee to the Lakeville study which describes the fiscal impact of multi -family housing on a community. He summarized that multi -family puts more of strain on a city's operating budget because of the demand for services, and there is less of a return. Steve noted the report specifies the need to focus on crime prevention and property maintenance. Steve indicated that many of the current goals and policies still apply, but some may need to be changed. Chair Minton stated that he felt the multi -family housing issue should be addressed at the next meeting. Mary Eberley suggested that information be obtained regarding the range of property values in the City. Discussion followed regarding development standards for insuring a variety of housing options. A resident in the audience expressed her concern that the City not dictate the size house she must build on a particular piece of property. Mary Eberley stated that she was referring to the responsibility the City has to provide a variety of housing throughout the City. Tom Jenior, resident, expressed his concern that the 10 acre minimum lot size is too restrictive. Dick Hinkle stated that he feels the time has come to lower the minimum lot size in the Agricultural zoning district.