2025-03-26 WS & CC Packet - Revised

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Page 4 o This section also requires “zones” to allow for a density of at least 25 units per acre, strict lot coverage, setbacks, height, and minimum lot size requirements. o Language eliminates reasonable standards for density, lot coverage, setbacks, and height. o The elimination of the ability for a city to set minimum side setbacks is particularly concerning related to EMS vehicle access. o Strict lot coverage limits will adversely affect storm water, lake, and river health. Lines 5.9 – 5.12: Similar concerns as noted for SF 2229-Port. Lines 5.13 – 5.26: Similar concerns as noted for SF 2229-Port. Section 3, Subdivision 4: Similar concerns as noted for SF 2229-Port. Section 3, Subdivision 5: Similar concerns as noted for SF 2229-Port. Section 3, Subdivision 6: This section, which states that if a city fails to adopt new standards that meet the requirements of the bill by June 30, 2027, up to six residential units must be allowed without restriction on any lot within one-half mile of a municipal state-aid street or zoning district authorizing mixed-use developments, is inexplicably punitive and ignores local circumstances and constraints. Section 3, Subdivision 7: Similar concerns as noted for SF 2229-Port. SF 1268 (Fateh) – Eliminating the Ability for Cities to Set Minimum Parking Requirements - We have broad concerns with this bill, as it would eliminate the ability for cities to set minimum parking requirements. Parking requirements must be set locally to manage safety and spillover effects. Thank you for consideration of our concerns. We appreciate the committee’s work on these issues and the ongoing engagement with our associations. Addressing housing requires policy that accommodates local needs and constraints, public funding to address housing needs not met by the private market and partnerships that recognize the connected but separate roles for the public, private and non-profit sectors in the provision of housing. We look forward to continuing to work with the committee to identifyways to preserve local decision- making flexibility and incentives-based approaches that provide cities with support in their efforts to address housing needs. Sincerely, Daniel Lightfoot Ania McDonnell Elizabeth Wefel League of Minnesota Cities Metro Cities Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities Tom Poul Patricia Nauman Cap O’Rourke Municipal Legislative Commission Metro Cities Minnesota Association of Small Cities Bradley Peterson Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cites 65