Agenda - Council - 04/02/2024 - Special

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COUNCIL MEMO Agenda Item # .9.6 Meeting Date: April 1, 2024 Agenda Section: Ordinances&Resolutions Item Description: RES/Resolution Supporting Retention of City Zoning Authority Submitted By: Doug Borglund, Community Development Director BACKGROUND INFORMATION As the City Council is aware there have been a number of bills circulating in the legislative process this year in St. Paul at the State Capital. Many of the bills that have been proposed take stock in advancing efforts to increase production of affordable housing supply and construction. Many of these proposed preemption bills are focused on addressing affordable housing both rental and ownership across the State and would preempt local zoning and land use regulations. The City of Anoka as a community and its housing stock is already near 50%rental and 80% of its housing stock is already affordable. Anoka has small lots already. Anoka has higher in density already. Anoka's market rate rent can be considered affordable. Anoka's home values are affordable overall. How will the proposed legislative changes help the City of Anoka? If some of the bills being considered pass. The results could include loss of local control including the ability for communities and its citizens across the State to provide public input as part of the development approval process. The proposed laws are of preemptive nature to say the least and would include many mandates that may not be realistic, practical, and costly. Enclosed is a resolution that has been put forth by the League of Minnesota Cities for consideration that would be shared as part of the ongoing legislative process this Spring. FINANCIAL IMPACT NA REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION Staff is recommending the City Council approve the proposed resolution as presented. REQUIRED VOTE A majority vote of the City Council is required.