10-02-2023 JDA Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

what they would like to see on this site. She explained she wanted to see this development walkable, forward-thinking and sustainable. Ella Mitchell read several questions from Commissioner Fabel and asked the guest speakers to speak to the current price ranges for housing and if the ongoing water remediation would cause any problems for homeowner financing. Ms. Mavity stated the average home in the MSP area was north of $400,000. She explained the greatest gap in need for home ownership was for first time homebuyers and the lack of homes within the $250,000 to $300,000 range. Commissioner Monson asked what the appetite was for different types of housing styles. Ms. Mavity discussed how the greatest gap that needs to be considered is with the lower end housing, for both owner-occupied and rental. She reported two- and three-bedroom townhomes or cottage homes were not available and there was a demand for boomers trying to downsize. Professor Fisher explained in Europe they were just building space with considerable flexibility and were not considering the zoning. He stated that by not putting space into categories, the market was then dictating how the space could be used. Ms. Mavity commented further on how the water remediation could be a win as this would demonstrate water safety within the development. Commissioner Monson stated she preferred mixed-use within Rice Creek Commons and hoped the development would have mixed-use potential. She questioned what type of housing would support small business and sustainability of authenticity. Ms. Mavity commented on how communities feel vibrant when there are more people milling about. She stated the more walkability and connected a community was the safer and more vibrant it would be. Chair Wicklund summarized the themes from the comments that were made. He believed these themes centered on the need for flexibility, affordable units/meeting the low-end gap, racial gaps, connectivity for transportation and walkability, and the need for strong partnerships throughout the development process. He anticipated further discussions would have to be held regarding future zoning decisions that would have to be made by the City. Commissioner Monson stated one of her biggest concerns was the fact that the developer was not in attendance. She explained if he was in attendance, he would be able to understand how the JDA’s thoughts could or could not be applied. She commented on how the JDA can learn from other sustainable communities or developments. She hoped the JDA could set certain