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Case <br /> <br />DISCUSS OPTIONS FOR INCREASING ARCHITECTURAL <br />STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT <br /> By: Amy Geisler, Associate Planner <br /> <br />Background: <br /> <br />The City Council discussed architectural standards for multifamily development at its <br />July 29, 2003 work session. Assistant Community Director Trudgeon informed the <br />Council that the Housing Committee would be taking up architectural standards with the <br />hope of making a recommendation to Council in the near future. <br /> <br />The following items are enclosed for your information: <br /> <br />a) Sample ordinances/design guidelines <br />b) Summary of architectural standards used by surrounding communities <br /> <br />Observations: <br /> <br />Staff has been researching architectural standards and their implementation and offers the <br />following observations: <br /> <br />Location of standards. Architectural standards can reside in City Code, the <br />Comprehensive Plan, or both. <br /> <br />Method of implementation. Architectural standards are typically implemented one of <br />two ways: through specific standards spelled out in City Code (% brick required per <br />building face, certain types of siding prohibited, etc) or through a formalized Design <br />Review process. In the first option, City staff would evaluate development plans for <br />compliance with specific architectural requirements established in City Code. In the <br />second option, an appointed Review Board would review plans according to less specific <br />requirements. Such a board typically contains members with specific architectural <br />expertise. Cities may also choose to pursue a combination approach. <br /> <br />Implications of architectural standards. Architectural standards may drive up the cost <br />of housing - to builders and ultimately to consumers. Builders are less able to use <br />standardized, corporate designs, and materials may have a higher initial cost. On the other <br />hand, architectural standards have the potential to produce housing that is of higher <br />quality and design, resulting in a more durable, diverse housing stock. <br /> <br />Application of standards. Architectural standards may be applied to all types of <br />residential development, a certain type of residential development (such as multifamily), <br />or through a voluntary process. Under a voluntary arrangement, developers may submit <br />to a higher level of architectural review in exchange for a density bonus, waived fees, or <br />some other incentive. Such an arrangement might be accomplished through a PUD <br /> <br /> <br />