Before changing Akron’s zoning, city officials want to know what residents think.
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik’s administration is suggesting a trifecta of changes that officials say will make the city more welcoming to investment, rebuild struggling neighborhoods and give residents more housing options.
In addition to reducing or eliminating minimum lot sizes, the city also is proposing allowing up to three housing units on parcels in more areas of Akron and making it easier to reinvest in residential buildings that aren’t up to code following previous zoning changes – so-called “legal nonconforming structures.”
Residents can review the specific proposed changes and share feedback through an interactive StoryMap available at: Akron Housing Zoning StoryMap.
The StoryMap includes background information on Akron’s zoning history and examples of how current regulations impact housing development today. It also has surveys that allow residents and stakeholders to provide feedback on each proposed change.
Community members can also submit comments directly by emailing zoning@akronohio.gov.
“Akron’s neighborhoods were built with a mix of housing types that gave residents more choices and created vibrant, walkable communities,” said Akron Mayor Shammas Malik in a prepared statement on June 15. “Over time, parts of our zoning code became more restrictive and created barriers to reinvestment and new housing construction. These proposed changes are about modernizing our policies, supporting neighborhood revitalization, and making it easier for residents to find housing that fits their needs.”
Akron City Council will eventually vote on the proposals.
The city said in a news release that allowing more units on parcels open the door for more types of housing – duplexes and small-scale neighborhood housing, for instance. Easing reinvestment in legal nonconforming structures, the city said, would help save existing housing stock and make rehabilitation easier.
These proposals would not eliminate building code requirements, safety standards or property maintenance obligations. Future development would still need to comply with setbacks, spacing requirements, housing codes and other safety regulations.
Robust community conversation around housing policy, spurred by the Unify Akron delegates, Freedom BLOC and others, led to these proposals, the city said.
“These recommendations are intended to continue a community conversation about how Akron can better align its zoning policies with today’s housing needs,” said Director of Planning and Urban Development Kyle Julien. “We know residents care deeply about their neighborhoods, and we want their feedback on these proposals.”
Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com or 330-541-9413.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron seeks feedback on proposed zoning changes to boost housing stock
Reporting by Derek Kreider, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Derek Kreider, Akron Beacon Journal | USA TODAY Network
