City Council Work Session 1/7/2025

The City of Milwaukie, Oregon City Council held a work session on January 7, 2025, focused on proposed code amendments to incentivize affordable housing development. Staff presented a package consolidating various affordable housing incentives into a streamlined variance application process, including density bonuses, setback reductions, and design standard modifications. The discussion covered eligibility criteria based on Area Median Income (AMI) thresholds, affordability duration requirements (proposed at 99 years), and the balance between incentivizing development and maintaining community standards such as green space and tree canopy. Council members debated the necessity and clarity of approval criteria, particularly regarding economic feasibility evidence required from developers, with some favoring removal of overly discretionary provisions to avoid project delays. The session also addressed coordination with city services and the potential budget impact of city funding for affordable housing projects. Staff indicated ongoing engagement with developers to ensure the incentives are practical and effective, and acknowledged the need for further discussion on some complex issues raised during the meeting.