City Planner Houston explained that the amendments to the Moorhead City Code involve changes in parking requirements, reducing the minimums by about 50%. This move allows developers greater flexibility in determining necessary parking for new housing projects. For example, studio apartments will no longer require dedicated parking, placing the responsibility on developers to market units accordingly. By reducing parking minimums, the city hopes to entice developers to invest in Moorhead, ultimately contributing to the city’s housing goals over the next decade.

The commission also discussed several zoning amendments, including the reclassification of 31 parcels to better suit the city’s comprehensive plan. These parcels, previously listed under mixed-use three zoning, will now be under mixed-use one, aligning with the new downtown delineation. The reclassification aims to facilitate a mix of commercial and housing uses in areas closer to the city center, such as around Hornbachers on Main Avenue and First Avenue.

Additionally, the commission is seeking a representative to join the Moorhead Wellhead Protection Team. This team will work on preventing contaminants from entering the city’s water supply. Meetings for this initiative are set to begin in November and will occur monthly for about six months.

The meeting also included an update on the comprehensive plan implementation, highlighting progress in various projects aligned with city goals. While the city has seen an increase in single-family home developments compared to previous years, the availability of residential lots remains low. Efforts are underway to address this by developing new subdivisions and expanding available lots.