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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—APRIL 27, 2026 14 occurring affordable housing in the community. He urged the Council to support the recommendation from the Planning Commission and to pass the ordinance amendment. Brad Bjorklund, 3550 Ridgewood Court, stated this ordinance was based upon an observation that there was too much greed and selfishness in this country and City. He hoped this ordinance would address this concern and make the City more human. He urged the City Council to support the proposed ordinance amendment, noting he has been working on this topic for over three years. Christy Jacob, 1492 Arden Place, commented that she heard the chamber of commerce state that young people were leaving the Twin Cities and people did not understand why. She explained the price of housing was too high and the average home buyer was now 40 years of age. She reported she had adult children with graduate degrees and promising careers. She stated her children did not believe they could live in Arden Hills. She encouraged the City Council to support proposed ordinance amendment and asked that the City be even more aggressive when it comes to affordability standards. Kay Reese,2730 Hershell Street North in Roseville, explained she could not afford to live in Arden Hills when she moved to Minnesota from Seattle. She encouraged the Council to consider the time and space that this decision is being made, which was the second quarter of the 21" Century. She discussed how housing was being impacted by hedge funds buying up housing. She asked that the Council not be complacent and comfortable because schools were losing enrollment and the City was in danger of stagnating into an old community. She recommended the City consider how to include young people and the vitality that should be in the community. She feared the community that has been created won't last unless the City Council begins to think differently. Eric Diaz, 1143 Ingerson Road, stated he agreed with many of the comments that have been made. He explained the City needs to strengthen its affordable housing ordinance to require developers to include affordable units in all multi-family units. He reported units at 80% AMI will not help the cost-burdened renters. He supported the Lexington Avenue corridor being used for affordable housing as this would be a walkable area that has a grocery store, pharmacy, YMCA and more. He recommended this corridor be zoned solely for affordable housing. He indicated he has a background in community and regional planning and he encouraged the City pursue more walkable initiatives. He ended his comments by thanking staff and the City Council for their efforts on behalf of the community. With no one coming forward to speak, Mayor Grant closed the public hearing at 9:15 p.m. 11. NEW BUSINESS A. City Code Chapter 13—Zoning Code Amendments—Planning Case 26-006 • Ordinance 2026-007 Amending City Code Chapter 13—Zoning Code, Section 1320 to Include a New Section 1320.16—Requirements for Affordable Housing • Authorization of Publication of Summary Ordinance Community Development Director Reilly stated this item was presented to the City Council under Agenda Item 10.A.