City Council Study Session Summary 2006 04 11

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City Council Study Session Summary April 11, 2006 Page 2 of 3 Discussion - Louisville Housing Authority The following members of the Louisville Housing Authority (LHA) were in attendance: Terri Abbot, Doris Fasbender, Callan Childs, Jay Keany, and Frank Alexander, Executive Director of the Louisville Housing Authority. Jay Keany, LHA President, presented a brief report on the recent activities of the Louisville Housing Authority. He explained that the Louisville Housing Authority would like to have a general discussion on inclusionary zoning. He stressed the difference between affordable housing and attainable housing. He explained that attainable housing is targeted to allow teachers, healthcare workers, law enforcement, etc., to be able to live in the communities in which they work. Several surrounding communities have ordinances in place that require new developments provide a certain percentage of attainable/affordable housing units in return for reduced fees or higher density. Frank Alexander commended the new members of the Louisville Housing Authority for their interest and commitment to increasing the affordable/attainable housing inventory in the City of Louisville. Mayor Sisk and Councilmember Sheri Marsella expressed support for the Longmont Affordable Housing Program. Councilmember Bob Muckle expressed support for inclusionary zoning requirements; however, he cautioned that Louisville residents may not support authorizing higher density in exchange for providing affordable/attainable housing units. Council member Don Brown expressed support for inclusionary zoning requirements and encouraged staff to consider comments made during the comprehensive plan process regarding the lack of entry-level and empty-nester housing units in Louisville. Mayor Sisk encouraged the Louisville Housing Authority to research the costs involved in administering a program in Louisville, including staffing needs. The Louisville Housing Authority members agreed to work with Heather Balser, staff liaison, to bring a proposal before City Council at an upcoming Regular City Council meeting. Public Comments - John Leary cautioned against focusing only on new housing inventory, as there are older homes in Louisville that could be refurbished and included in the affordable/attainable housing inventory. Councilmember Sheri Marsella agreed with John Leary, however, she stated that those homes are not necessarily affordable for this type of program.