TOPEKA (KSNT) – The Topeka Planning Commission voted to move forward with making changes to Topeka’s Municipal Code regarding duplexes, triplexes and quad-plexes in single-family districts on Monday.
The planning commission voted to approve changes to Topeka’s Municipal Code Title 18 to allow two-family and multi-family properties in single-family zones under certain conditions.
The planning commission voted to move forward with an option that would allow duplexes and triplexes, quadplexes under Conditional Use Permits (CUP). Guidelines included considerations for the number of units in a subdivision or block, compliance with neighborhood plans and minimizing paving of front yards.
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Opponents argued that the changes could negatively impact property values or the character of neighborhoods.
“To change the neighborhood’s zoning to multi-family would irrevocably change the feel of the neighborhood,” concerned citizen Marie Hall wrote to the planning commission. “This area is not designed to accommodate the volume of vehicles that would come with multifamily dwellings. Many of the homes have carriage houses on the alley, with no driveway to accommodate additional parking. If the streets were suddenly lined with vehicles, it would block the view of the homes that Topekans come to enjoy. Not to mention causing safety concerns — streets lined with vehicles obscure the view of other moving vehicles, pets & children.”
Proponents of the plan argued that the changes will help increase the housing supply and address a “missing middle” housing shortage. Missing middle housing refers to a shortage in supply of affordable housing, which includes duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes and bungalows, according to the National League of Cities.
“Another comment made was that missing middle housing threatens property values and stable neighborhoods,” Land Use Planning Manager Mike Hall said. “There’s really no evidence of that…. There’s been some research done that shows that there isn’t a negative impact by the introduction of multifamily residential development.”
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According to Hall, the CUP application process is similar to applying for rezoning. He said it requires a neighborhood information meeting, publication, a public hearing and notification of neighbors within a certain radius.
The decision now goes to the Policy & Finance Committee and then to the City Council for final action. You can watch the full meeting by clicking here.
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