Minutes - Council - 06/28/2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mayor Strommen stated that in the future she would like to see the financial information that was reviewed by Premier but acknowledged that it would not be appropriate to include that information in the public packet. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Johns, to approve a six- month temporary reduction in rent rates (three months at 50% of base rent and three months at 75% of base rent) for the Lease Agreement between the City of Ramsey and Northern Light Church for use of 6701 U.S. Highway 10. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Strommen, Councilmembers Williams, Johns, Riley, and Shryock. Voting No: Councilmember Kuzma. Absent: Councilmember LeTourneau. 7.08: Receive Update from Community Development Department 1) New Construction Activity 2) Current Housing Plans and Available Resources Community Development Director Gladhill reviewed the staff report providing an update on new construction activity and available resources. He stated that the City is on track with forecasting for the year in terms of permitting levels and advised that the housing developments that are being completed are the last phases of the developments and therefore in the near future the City will see some new development plans coming forward. He reviewed key survey findings for the planning department regarding the desire for more online options, shortening plan review time, loosening topsoil requirements, improvement in erosion control processes, reduce permit holds for septic, and improved assistance for non -contractors (home owners and business owners). He advised that some permits can be applied for and obtained online 24 hours per day, permit history can be searched for online, and inspections can be schedule online as well. He moved onto the current housing plans, noting that an update to the housing chapter will be made with the updating of the Comprehensive Plan. He reviewed the 2014 housing assistance plan priorities. He stated that in the past Ramsey was almost exclusively single family detached homes and continues to have a majority of that stock while adding to that with some multi -family and townhomes. He noted that the more diverse housing pattern assists in providing a variety of housing products to residents and potential residents. He provided information on affordable housing and affordability thresholds. Councilmember Riley asked for additional information on the supply and demand for affordable housing. Community Development Director Gladhill stated that there was a point at which the supply exceeded the demand and as the market returns there will be more affordable housing constructed. He noted that now that the data is available perhaps it would be appropriate to have a more in depth discussion in the future. Councilmember Riley stated that this item arose because of the apartment development within The COR and specifically whether there is a need for further apartments or whether that element has been met. City Council / June 28, 2016 Page 8 of 10