Title
City Commission Workshop on Royal Park Multi-Family Development. (B)
Explanation
On December 2, 2021, the City Commission heard a request from DRMP, Inc. (David Sowell), agent for Henderson, R L Jr Trustee, to vacate the plats, Green Ridge Unit 1 and Green Ridge Unit 2, OR 98/590, and 98/596, respectively, Tax Parcel 06496-000-000. During that meeting, the owners of surrounding properties addressed the commission on traffic issues related to a proposed by-right affordable housing multi-family residential development, planned for the vacated Green Ridge plat. The City Commission approved the plat vacation through Resolutions # 210547 and #210681.
Independent of the aforementioned plat vacations, an affordable housing site plan was submitted to the City for review consistent with the City's development review process. The project is a "by-right" development which means that the development is allowed to occur, consistent with the existing zoning and regulations governing the property, without any "discretionary approvals" or additional processes. Additionally, in 2019, the City committed $37,500 from ConnectFree revenue to fund a matching grant for this project. That grant allowed the project’s developer to apply for and receive funding from the State Apartment Incentive Loan (SAIL) Program.
The intent of this workshop is to discuss concerns raised regarding access to the development with the relevant stakeholders including neighbors, various city departments, the Developer, and the City Commission.
Fiscal Note
None.
Strategic Connection:
This item is connected to Goal 3: A Great Place to Live & Experience of the City of Gainesville Strategic Plan.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Commission hear an overview from staff, receive comments from surrounding property owners, and discuss issues with stakeholders as appropriate.