PCMin_93Aug23 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

CONSIDERATION OF THE ADOPTION OF THE UNIFORM HOUSING CODE WITH • SOME REVISIONS. Hoyt reported that two years ago a recommendation was made to the planning commission and to the city council that the city adopt a housing code that could be used when the health and safety of residents is threatened by the condition of a dwelling unit. She said it is easier for Ramsey County health officials to enforce health standards when a housing code is in place. After some research, she said staff would recommend adopting a uniform housing code now to have in place if this type of situation should arise. A program could be considered for issuing a "certificate of occupancy" for apartment buildings in the future. The city could also consider a "truth-in-housing" program. A copy of an ordinance amending the city code relating to the adoption of the uniform housing code with proposed amendments was handed out. A discussion by the commissioners followed regarding the adoption of the Uniform Housing Code. Commissioner Salzberg mentioned that some communities require a truth-in-housing inspection when a house is sold so if it was substandard it would have to be brought up to code before it could be sold. Commissioner Kuettel suggested that perhaps it would be a good idea to check other communities to find out if they have housing codes and if they worked. Hoyt said this was being done. After more discussion, the commissioners recommended that a date be set for a public hearing on the proposed adoption of the uniform • housing code possibly in October. DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED CHANGES IN THE HOME OCCUPATION REQUIREMENTS §9-14.02 SUBD. 25. Because there has been an increase in home occupation requests, the planning firm of Dahlgren, Shardlow and Uban was asked to review the city's home occupation code to see if it met the city's needs. The commission discussed Dahlgren, Shardlow & Uban's recommendation that "normal residential traffic should be maintained" as stated in our current home occupation ordinance should be amended to specify a particular number of trips per day. Perhaps 4 - 6 depending upon the type of business. Dahlgren, Shardlow & Uban also recommended specifically listing permitted or non-permitted uses as home occupations. This is not done in the current code which allows any use that does not disrupt the character of the neighborhood. Currently, a home occupation that does not meet the requirements of the code may apply for a conditional use permit. Hoyt recommended this procedure be replaced with the variance procedure. A variance procedure would require the applicant to demonstrate hardship due to the requirements of the code. If a hardship is truly . demonstrated it can be approved; if not, it can be denied.