5.1. PCSR 08-24-2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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f- �r • A 'X a•� I Reinvest in Existing Housing Encourage Expansions of Existing Investing in the oldest homes built in Elk River not only Single-Family Detached Homes improves the appearance and overall attractiveness of Many homes in the Downtown neighborhoods have historic neighborhoods and the vibrancy of the Down- considerable yard space before they would be restricted town,but also helps support the largest source of naturally by rear setback requirements.However,the maximum occurring affordable housing in the community.Studies lot coverage for these parcels is a major restriction to completed by the U.S.Department of Housing and Urban any expansion of these homes.Making it easy to expand Development(HUD)have found that older houses typically existing single-family detached homes can help diver- maintain lower rents and sales prices than newer housing sify the overall housing stock in the City and also allow and as such make up the majority of affordable non-gov- homeowners to meet the needs of their growing family, ernment subsidized housing across the United States. modernize their homes,and make them more marketable The City should work alongside the Housing and Rede- in the long run,while still fitting within the existing neigh- velopment Authority(HRA) to encourage and enforce the borhood character.The City should encourage expansions continued maintenance and reinvestment in these critical by reducing barriers to design,permitting,and construc- neighborhoods to ensure a healthy,diverse,and affordable tion through a variety of means such as: housing stock is available to residents of Elk River. • Assessing and amending residential district bulk and Waive License and Permit Fees dimensional standards to allow for higher lot coverage; Associated with Maintenance • Waiving or reducing permitting fees on certain project Reinvestment into the exterior of a home can be expensive types; and time consuming.Although most costs are associated • Providing community information sessions on how with materials and labor,other costs may stem from the to complete permit applications for homeowners fee to place a dumpster or receive a license or permit.The completing their own work; City should consider working with a contracted partner Providing assistance to homeowners on how to find a for trash collection to waive these fees for a limited time licensed contractor in the City; period every year to encourage homeowners to reinvest in their properties.For example,the cost to place a dumpster Providing information sessions/guidance on how to could be lowered or eliminated for groups of five or more schedule inspections once work is complete;and neighbors looking to improve their homes and neighbor- . Expanding inspection times to include weekends and/or hood. hours after the standard workday from 5:0Opm-7:0Opm. In addition,the City should also advertise the Housing and Redevelopment Authority as a key resource for low and moderate income homeowners looking to complete home expansions in the City.The Housing and Redevelopment Authority is a public corporation empowered to undertake certain types of housing and redevelopment projects in the City.The HRA has resources and funds available for home- owners to make improvements to their properties located within the Urban Service Area. 44 Housing Plan•Elk River Comprehensive Plan DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY