07-25-12 Special Called Meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission

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REVISED DRAFT JUNE 14APRIL 9, 2012 appropriate locations. Examples of these varied units are depicted in the inset, which may include duplexes, patio homes, townhomes, and multiplexes. This does not mean that there is not a market for single-family homes; rather, it means that future development should incorporate more housing diversity so that existing and future residents will have sufficient options, from large lot single-family dwellings (e.g., in the Lomax area), to residential above retail lofts, live/work units, and attached living. Duplex Lack of affordability is a concern. When there is a lack of affordable housing options available, it increases individual and/or family distress and is considered to have negative quality and affordable housing within livable and attractive environments. Maintaining livability as the City transitions to an infill and redevelopment focus will require creativity and a willingness to coordinate efforts. The qualities that make La Porte an attractive place to live are also making La Porte an Patio Home expensive place to live. Increasing housing prices creates obstacles for low-income households and threatens to push residents to unsatisfactory housing options. The inability to find housing locally poses a hardship for households seeking an affordable home, as well as employers seeking employees. Actions and Initiatives 1) developments that will offer alternatives to existing and future Townhouse residents. New development and redevelopment should include more than one housing type, with ordinance provisions for increased open space as separation and buffering and other standards to ensure compatibility. A combination of housing options and lot sizes will result in a diversity of housing choices choices that will be useful in attracting and keeping singles, younger families, and older residents. 2)Consider incorporating accessory dwelling units in the zoning ordinance, along with appropriate provisions governing Mutliplex their use and compatibility. They are common and increasing in popularity in many communities to accommodate elderly Future development/redevelopment efforts should place greater focus on members wanting to live independently but close by, or diversifying the housing stock within the City, by including some of the above 3)Consider aAdopting alternate housing types. residential development, which may include provisions for Source: Kendig Keast Collaborative. building form and scale, articulated building walls, building 2.14 Chapter 2