In their current versions HB 816 (Helmer) and SB 454 (VanValkenburg) require local zoning ordinances to allow for the by-right development and construction of multifamily residential and mixed-use residential development on at least 50 percent of all land contained in commercial or business zoning district classifications and that … are served by public water and sewer or are located within an area designated for public water and sewer service in the locality’s comprehensive plan.
ACTION REQUESTED
- VACo Members – Contact ALL legislators in the General Assembly (House of Delegates | Senate of Virginia) to oppose this legislation now.
- After passing the Senate (21-19), SB 454 passed in House Counties, Cities and Towns Committee (11-10) and will be on the House Floor this week.
- After passing the House (64-35), HB 816 passed in Senate Local Government Committee (9-6) will be on the Senate Floor this week.
Both bills were amended in committee to limit its application to cities and towns having a population of more than 20,000, or any locality within a federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO). There are 34 Virginia counties currently located within designated MPOs.
KEY POINTS
- Through the implementation of comprehensive plans, capital improvement programs, and land use ordinances, counties have made strategic investments to provide for managed growth in business, jobs, and housing.
- Counties, in partnership with developers, have successfully implemented mixed use developments that include both commercial and residential components.
- A mandate to allow for multi-family residential use on land planned and zoned for commercial and business growth, invalidates publicly invested time and money, and ignores the role of counties in making wise land use decisions for their communities.
KEY CONTACTS
VACo Contact: Joe Lerch, AICP