Increased Housing Opportunities

By Joel R. Panzer

If elected, I will work with landowners to identify opportunites for in-fill development and increase housing opportunities, particularly for entry-level housing.

At a policy level, the City supports housing. I just don't think that the City itself is doing enough to produce affordable housing. I would propose identifying real opportunities to expand the housing stock for working families by directing staff to consult with with property owners and provide incentives for housing development. For example, in the Old Town area and South Main Street areas there are possible opportunities for going up two or three stories for condominium type apartments or flats. These areas are close to employment, shopping, services and transit. The challanges would be construction costs and parking. Modest increases in housing densities would be compatible with the adjoining residential densities and thoughtful architectural design would allow new construction to blend in with these historic neighborhoods.

There is a lot to study, review and refine to make this concept work, but I currently beleive that there is an opportunity here that would be beneficial to property owners and beneficial to our residents seeking home ownership opportunities and the comfort and security owning a home affords a family.