The proposed R1A Oldtown Residential zoning district aims to facilitate redevelopment while preserving the aesthetic integrity of the neighborhood. Associate Planner Travis Briarley explained that the initiative was born from a zoning amendment request, leading to a feasibility investigation and community engagement. Despite the city council previously denying a similar proposal, the commission sought to address community concerns by emphasizing the district’s intent to maintain single-family housing characteristics and prevent developments like mobile homes or Section 8 housing. Briarley stressed that the proposed changes would support smaller housing footprints and promote architectural harmony with existing structures.

A notable aspect of the proposal includes the reduction of minimum lot sizes from 12,000 square feet to 9,200 square feet, with front and rear setbacks also adjusted to accommodate diverse housing options. Despite these changes, side yard setbacks would remain unchanged at ten feet. The zoning district would prohibit large-scale housing like apartment buildings and townhomes, while still allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), as long as they conform to building codes. Briarley highlighted the shoreland overlay’s additional regulations, emphasizing restrictions on subdivision in areas near water bodies.

Residents expressed strong resistance to these changes. Public comments revealed apprehension regarding the introduction of duplexes and multifamily housing, with many fearing that such developments could negatively impact property values and the neighborhood’s charm. One resident, echoing the sentiment of many, argued that the charm lies in the large lots and mature trees, advocating for case-specific evaluations of new developments rather than broad changes. Another resident questioned the rationale for permitting duplexes, noting satisfaction with the current single-family home setup.

Nonetheless, residents remained skeptical, citing fears of strain on existing resources. A resident who identified as a residential appraiser underscored the potential devaluation of single-family homes located near multifamily housing, a concern that resonated with the broader community.

Further complicating the discussion were proposed design standards aimed at fostering neighborhood cohesion. One suggestion required that at least 15% of any home’s street-facing facade include windows, preventing flat, alley-like appearances. Other proposals included matching street-facing materials with the principal structure and preserving century-old trees to maintain neighborhood character. The conversation extended to accessory structures, with discussions on restricting their size to prevent overshadowing the principal residence.

The commission also deliberated on accessory dwelling units, debating the balance between allowing ADUs and maintaining reasonable garage sizes. The potential reduction of maximum garage footprints to 900 square feet was weighed against preserving space for ADUs, with suggestions for aligning accessory structure guidelines with existing R1 standards.

Towards the end of the meeting, concerns were raised about the long-term implications of the proposed zoning changes. Commissioners acknowledged the necessity for flexibility in future redevelopment, particularly as older properties age and require updates. The potential for subdividing properties under the new R1A standards was discussed, highlighting the balance between fostering growth and preserving existing neighborhood aesthetics.