Minutes - Council - 08/08/2023 - Laserfiche WebLink

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noted that regulation of this would likely be a part of the rental licensing inspections. She shared that other cities that do have a number in their definition have a reasonable accommodation request for things like recovery housing. She noted that unless there is an issue with this, she does not see the need to change the definition of ‘family’ at this time. Councilmember Howell asked what drove this addition to the zoning code. Planning Manager Larson stated that part of this was to align the definitions with use which is when they discovered that they do not have a definition of ‘family.’ He noted that the City is likely not going to know how many people are living in a home as long as everyone is a good renter; however, they do sometimes get complaints pertaining to the number of vehicles, which is when they may have to start asking questions. Councilmember Howell asked if there have been more issues that come out of these properties that have multiple individuals living together. Planning Manager Larson said no. Councilmember Woestehoff asked about any potential liabilities by having or not having a definition of ‘family.’ City Attorney Knaak explained that the definitions are fairly common and they give a baseline standard. He stated that if there are people that are related to each other it will be an assumption that they are a family. He noted that the downside is with someone who is dealing with rental properties. He discussed boarding houses and why they would want to regulate something like this separately. He noted that there is a rental ordinance that should inspect the properties annually to check on standards. He added that the City may not want to have a situation where they have multiple unrelated people where there is not at least some level of supervision. He stated that it is not just a concern with parking. He explained that the use of the definition makes assumptions as to what a family is, which can be challenged. He added that he was surprised that Ramsey does not have a definition of ‘family’ as it is a common definition in neighboring communities. Councilmember Musgrove asked if there is any consideration for group homes as a home occupation. Planning Manager Larson stated that group homes are not considered home occupations as in most of these cases, the residents and patients are the ones living in the home, not the owners. He noted that group homes are in a separate category, calling them licensed residential facilities, which require a State license. He noted that the zoning code also has unlicensed residential facilities, which do not have any State oversight. He stated that the definition for this is six unrelated individuals. Councilmember Musgrove asked if this would help with some of the concerns that Mrs. Johnson expressed. Planning Manager Larson said yes. City Council / August 8, 2023 Page 12 of 16