02/13/1989 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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~ Mr. Weinman pointed out that the East Skinner Butte Historic area was exempted at the recommendation of residents and the Historic Review Board. Any projects that are built must meet a "but for" test and a pro-forma must be submitted to the City for analysis. Referring to a letter in councilors' packets from Jerry Knight, Mr. Weinman explained that Mr. Knight had requested inclusion of his property (shown in red on the map being reviewed and located on the northeast corner of the intersection of Jefferson Street and 11th Avenue). He added that the area surrounding Mr. Knight's property (shown in yellow on the map and located between Washington and Jefferson streets and 11th and 7th avenues), is zoned R-3, and could be included. Mr. Weinman said because of its relationship to the taxing district, School District 4J's approval is required before the ordinance can take effect. He anticipated official approval February 15. Mr. Weinman said the ordinance will have no significant tax rate impact. Ms. Ehrman commented that the yellow area on the map is one that is considered a buffer by the Westside neighborhood and she suggested that its inclusion should be reviewed by that neighborhood. Mayor Miller opened the public hearing. e Tom Slocum, 1950 Graham Drive, described himself as a supporter of the re-enactment of this ordinance, but asked the council to consider several changes. Mr. Slocum viewed the purpose of the State legislation as being to encourage housing in core areas and he saw a need for middle-income housing in Eugene. He opposed the ordinance being linked to low-cost housing and said that if housing in the $500 to $700 per month range were provided in the downtown area, lower cost units now occupied by those who can afford more costly housing would become available for low-income residents. Mr. Slocum requested that the low-income housing fee be more clearly defined if the council proceeds with its implementation. Mr. Slocum said that the area south of the Amazon and west of Willamette Street is designated as low-density housing in the Metro Plan and he said a plan amendment would be necessary for it to be used for multi-family housing. Finally, Mr. Slocum suggested that adequate protection is provided for historic structures and the East Butte Historic area should be included because it has vacant lots suitable for development under this program. Randy Prince, P.O. Box 927, encouraged the council to review its housing policies affecting property taxes. He suggested establishing different property tax rate structures for land and improvements, shifting the balance of property taxes to land value, modifying parking requirements, restricting housing zoning, dropping the "but for" provision of the proposal, and limiting the exemption to the value of improvements with the land value assessment not being affected. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council February 13, 1989 Page 6