The Flagstaff City Council increases flexibility in zoning policies for affordable housing developments

This photo shows the members of the Flagstaff City Council.

BRADY WHEELER, Sun Staff reporter

BRADY WHEELER Sun Staff Reporter

Flagstaff City Council on Tuesday approved changes to the zone code to support future affordable housing developments.

The zone code changes allow developers to request code changes for new projects with 100% affordable housing, except in historic, landmark or airport overlay zones.

Dan Symer, Code Manager for Flagstaff Zoning, said the increased flexibility was needed to help new projects meet the city’s development standards. He added that the changes could create incentives for more affordable housing projects in the city’s future.

Possible changes to the code include, but are not limited to, building height, density, lighting standards, and parking space requirements.

For a change to be granted, the development must be viewed as being in line with the city’s general plan. As outlined in the plan, any potential changes cannot affect the public interest, health, safety, convenience or well-being of the city and must benefit the public.

In addition, changes should reflect both the character of the area and similar developments. The character is assessed by comparing the features, quality and amenities of developments in the area or being available to the public at a similar market price.

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“The idea is that you are not changing the standard in a way that eliminates other standards or amenities that are required in full,” said Symer. “When you look at an affordable housing estate, you shouldn’t be able to tell the difference between it and a market-driven development.”