Commissioner Tom Buford presented research regarding affordable housing developments at the July 25 Planning Commission meeting, passing around information and guidelines from the Arkansas Development Finance Authority about procedures and financing for low-income housing developments. Buford said someone must step forward to lead the campaign for affordable housing developments, and that person would work with or for a nonprofit that would act as the developer. He said there is a nonprofit in Harrison qualified to fill this role for a fee.
The program is not for rehabbing homes or loans for single-family residences but for multi-family developments, and Buford stated ADFA is required to make a minimum number of these loans.
Chair Melissa Greene commented affordable housing should stay on their agenda, while commissioner Woodie Acord noted a significant hurdle for developers is the cost of installing city utilities.
Commissioner Susan Harman they needed more information, and providing information for those who want it might be all Planning could do about affordable housing. Greene mentioned there might be zoning contentions Planning could address.
Commissioners agreed to review the Subdivision section of City Code before the next meeting.
Public comments
Susan Misavage told commissioners the number of weddings in town has greatly diminished, but they still happen. B&Bs already host both weddings and receptions, and because they respect their neighbors most folks do not even notice them. She claimed it would be unfair to place further restrictions on weddings and receptions such as imposing a time limit or requiring indoor-only events. She said there would be negative unintended consequences if Planning unduly restricted weddings and receptions.
Bob Jasinski took issue with what he perceived to be an attempt by Planning to over define what a B&B can serve for breakfast. He again decried the lack of regulations on vacation rentals and the fact some are operating illegally. Jasinski reminded commissioners that although they are not supposed to discuss agenda items with each other except at meetings, they are not restricted from having discussions with their constituents.
Next meeting will be Tuesday, August 8, at 6 p.m.