Overview
- The City Council approved a pilot program that updates the zoning code to allow limited Portfolio Homes projects through a new chapter in the development rules.
- The city says developers can pick from pre‑approved home plans, get permits more quickly, and avoid building permit fees to cut costs for small infill and cottage‑court sites.
- According to city materials, each project must secure a preliminary plan, go before the Planning Commission for a public hearing with notice to nearby owners, and then receive a final council vote.
- Residents who opposed the change said the streamlined path weakens their ability to protest and could bring smaller lots, more traffic, and shifts in neighborhood character, with some warning it could be used citywide.
- Officials describe the homes as “middle housing” at about $400,000 per unit, which critics question as a fix for affordability, while backers say added choices could help young families and downsizing seniors.