HB 816 (Helmer) requires all local zoning ordinances allow for the by-right development and construction of multifamily residential uses on at least 75 percent of all land contained in commercial or business zoning district classifications. The bill also (1) requires that the zoning ordinance provisions must exempt any proposed development that converts an existing building to a multifamily residential use from any setback, height, or frontage requirements; and (2) prohibits localities from approving any commercial or business use on a property adjacent to the approved multifamily residential development that is different from the use that had been established at the time the multifamily residential development was approved.
ACTION REQUIRED – Oppose HB 816 today by contacting members of the House Counties, Cities and Towns Committee.
HB 816 was approved by the House Counties, Cities and Towns Subcommittee #2 by a vote of 6–1 and will be heard in full committee on Friday, January 23 for further consideration.
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 CONTACT
House Counties, Cities and Towns Committee
VACo Contact: Joe Lerch, AICP