Eugene City Councilors Wednesday made some changes to a proposed Middle Housing ordinance that’s been in the works for about two years.
Despite months of public involvement, a recent hearing on the city’s plan to implement House Bill 2001 drew historic numbers—many in opposition.
The council has to implement the plan before June 30th when House bill 2001 takes effect. It’s aimed at increasing the variety and amount of housing in cities.
Councilor Greg Evans said he wants to support the work of the city’s planning commission over the past 2 years.
“I’m not in favor of turning our whole planning process over to the state of Oregon,” he said. “I think that we need to keep as much local control as we can. 2001 has taken away some of that control.”
Councilors approved a reduction in maximum height for new four-plexes, triplexes and duplexes from 35 feet to 30 feet. They also eliminated incentives for not including parking spots for new small dwelling units. They also voted to change a parking incentive for building closer to public transit from within a half mile to within one quarter mile of EmX stops.
And they approved shorter maximum heights for new buildings from 35 feet to 30 with an additional 7 feet for roof slope.
The council voted against a motion to reduce maximum lot coverage from 75% to 50%, which is the current standard.
Councilors may vote on the middle housing ordinance at their May 18th work session.
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