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City Council Meeting Minutes December 21, 2021 Page 9 of 12 neighborhood character and it allows this nonconforming lots to exist; it doesn't protect the existing historic character. Mr. Onaran stated they heard the increasing housing sizes and prices is creating a lack of affordable housing and affecting the equity and diversity of the area. The existing code prevents the creation of new smaller lots and may be encouraging building bigger. Regarding preservation they heard that new infills and additions do not preserve the historic character of Old Town. They observed that new construction doesn't match the historic pattern of buildings. The code allows for preservation and landmark bonuses that result in buildings too large to fit on lots. Mr. Onaran stated the current standards are not addressing diversity of size and are calibrated to lot size instead of building prototype and desired character; the code permits large buildings on large lots but does not allow the creation of new small lots. The code lacks measures for preservation of historic character. Interim Planning Director Ritchie stated staff and the consultants are here tonight to ask if the project is headed in the right direction and if there are other things the Council wants considered in the project in phase two. Public Comments RJ Harrington, 457 East Raintree Court, stated he would like sustainability addressed in this project as well affordability and EDI. Sherry Sommer, 910 South Palisade Court, stated this project is long overdue; we need to preserver the character of our town and have more affordable housing options in town. Councilmember Dickinson stated he is struck by how easy it is to build a large home rather than split lots and build two smaller homes. Mayor Pro Tern Maloney stated maintaining character is as important as preservation. He noted the real estate is more valuable than the size of the home in this area and he is not sure how we can address that. He stated he would like more public outreach in the process. He suggested a special meeting be scheduled for this item for focused discussion. Councilmember Most asked if Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are being considered for the next phase. Interim Planning Director Ritchie stated ADUs are a part of the historic fabric of the community and staff wants to know if Council is interested in having that conversation as a part of this study, as a part of the housing study, or as a part of the comprehensive plan update. It will need to be a conversation of the larger community.