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Allowing for mixed -income developments with sufficient density to move forward without subsidy while at the same time adding more options to add units to existing lots is the lowest cost option for cities to address housing affordability and a mix of housing types. Looking at the adopted 2040 Comprehensive Plan, two directions with multiple solutions stand out: • Encourage the incorporation of affordable and life -cycle housing into new development and redevelopment where feasible. • Identify programs, policies, and strategies that encourage aging in community for senior citizens. Related solutions are included in Attachment A. Based on the current market and the location of available sites for housing in Arden Hills, changing the overall density allowed in specific zoning districts such as R-4 Multiple Dwelling and B-2 General Business or in the High Density Housing and Mixed Use future land uses is more likely than not to yield success in the private market without requiring subsidy from the city. Staff would also like feedback on pursuing two more options designed to generate successful affordable housing and businesses: Create an Affordable Housing Fund This statutory tool created by the Minnesota State Legislature offers a municipality an opportunity to save money directed specifically to creating or preserving housing and to do so in a way that is context sensitive and addresses all scales and aspects of housing from ownership to rental, including new construction and rehabilitation/repair. No tax levy is required. Council should provide feedback if this should be added to the agenda planning list for future work session discussion to receive more information on this topic. Collaborate with Ramsey County Ramsey County Community and Economic Development (CED) has a number of tools designed to help with housing affordability including technical assistance and dollars. The recently approved creation of a County Housing and Redevelopment Authority will allow for additional flexibility in the use of county funds to address housing needs at all scales. CED will be rolling out those programs over the next year. Programs offered by the county can also support initiatives important to Arden Hills such as supporting the business environment, helping older folks stay in their homes and/or in the community, and helping more new families move into Arden Hills and buy or rent homes. Staff will continue to collaborate with and promote appropriate county programs to Arden Hills residents and business owners. Budget Impact N/A Attachments Attachment A: Draft Inclusionary Housing Ordinance Page 3 of 3