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Carbondale Board of Trustees Updates ADU Regulations to Address Housing Shortage

Carbondale Board of Trustees Updates ADU Regulations to Address Housing Shortage

The Carbondale Board of Trustees has revised the town's regulations on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to encourage the development of additional housing options in the Roaring Fork Valley. The updated regulations aim to simplify the process for residents to build ADUs on their properties, which can take the form of converted basements, studio apartments above garages, or standalone tiny houses. The changes include a two-tiered review system, where ADUs within existing structures require only a building permit, while those needing external construction require an administrative site plan review. The updates also allow for larger ADUs with more rooms and relax parking requirements by not mandating a dedicated parking space for each unit. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to alleviate the housing crunch in the area, which has been exacerbated by high construction costs and regulatory complexities.
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Denver City Council to Address Housing, Legal Services, and Transportation Initiatives

Denver City Council to Address Housing, Legal Services, and Transportation Initiatives

The Denver City Council is set to review a diverse agenda that includes a $3.4 million contract with Jewish Family Service of Colorado to provide rapid rehousing for homeless individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The council will also consider a $200,000 amendment to a legal services contract with Kaplan Kirsch LLP for aviation-related matters. Additionally, a public hearing is scheduled to discuss changes to the Welton Corridor redevelopment plan, which could impact growth and displacement in the Five Points neighborhood. The council will also deliberate on a three-year license agreement with Veo for Denver's shared bike and scooter program.
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Oswego Village Board Rejects Self-Storage Facility Proposal on Orchard Road

Oswego Village Board Rejects Self-Storage Facility Proposal on Orchard Road

The Oswego Village Board has voted against granting a special use permit for a proposed self-storage facility at the intersection of Lewis Drive and Orchard Road. The decision was based on the belief that the facility would not align with the commercial development goals for the area. The proposal, submitted by Phil McAlister, involved constructing six storage structures and a main parking lot on a 7.5-acre parcel. The site is part of the Orchard Way development, which is intended for commercial retail and experiential retail uses. Despite the Oswego Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation for approval, village staff advised against the permit, citing the need for the area to remain a hub for commercial activity. Oswego Village President Ryan Kauffman and Trustee Rachelle Koenig expressed concerns about the location, suggesting that while there is a need for self-storage, the proposed site is not suitable.
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Tiny Home Villages Offer Alternative to Traditional Homeownership Amid Housing Crisis

Tiny Home Villages Offer Alternative to Traditional Homeownership Amid Housing Crisis

Tiny Home Villages Offer Alternative to Traditional Homeownership Amid Housing Crisis
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Connecticut Homeowner Seeks to Build Apartments in Backyard Barn Amid Neighbor Opposition

Connecticut Homeowner Seeks to Build Apartments in Backyard Barn Amid Neighbor Opposition

In Bethel, Connecticut, homeowner Rose Marino is proposing to convert a backyard barn into three one-bedroom apartments, leveraging a state affordable housing law. This plan, which includes designating one unit as affordable housing, faces opposition from neighbors concerned about neighborhood character and property values. Marino, a nanny, aims to make living in Connecticut more affordable for herself by utilizing a density bonus rule that allows multifamily construction in single-family zones if a portion of the units are affordable. The proposal is set for a public hearing on April 28.
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Converted School Bus Offers Affordable Living in Florida Keys Amid Rising Costs

Converted School Bus Offers Affordable Living in Florida Keys Amid Rising Costs

Converted School Bus Offers Affordable Living in Florida Keys Amid Rising Costs
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VOICES Nonprofit Amplifies Community Stories Through Art in Colorado

VOICES Nonprofit Amplifies Community Stories Through Art in Colorado

VOICES Nonprofit Amplifies Community Stories Through Art in Colorado
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Arizona's Short-Term Rentals Not Solely Responsible for Housing Crisis, Report Finds

Arizona's Short-Term Rentals Not Solely Responsible for Housing Crisis, Report Finds

A recent analysis by the Common Sense Institute challenges the perception that short-term rentals (STRs) are the primary cause of Arizona's housing crisis. The report indicates that many STRs, such as those listed on Airbnb, were not originally part of the full-time housing market. Instead, these properties were often vacation homes that were converted into STRs. The study highlights that the real issue lies in the collapse of homebuilding following the Great Recession, which significantly reduced the state's housing supply. Despite the backlash against STRs in areas like Sedona and Scottsdale, a 2017 state law prevents local jurisdictions from imposing broad restrictions on these rentals.
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Young People Leaving Boston Due to High Costs and Safety Concerns

Young People Leaving Boston Due to High Costs and Safety Concerns

A recent poll by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce reveals that 26% of young adults in Boston plan to leave the city within five years. The primary reasons cited include high living costs, safety concerns, and job availability. This trend reflects a growing dissatisfaction among the city's youth, with a notable decline in life satisfaction compared to previous years. Many of those planning to leave are considering relocating to the Southwest or Southeast regions of the U.S., although a significant portion still wishes to remain within Massachusetts. The poll highlights the challenges Boston faces in retaining its young population amid economic pressures.
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Summit County Workforce Grows by 46% Amid Decline in Visitor Numbers

Summit County Workforce Grows by 46% Amid Decline in Visitor Numbers

Summit County has experienced a significant increase in its workforce, growing by 46% since 2019, while the number of out-of-market visitors has decreased by 5%. This development was discussed during a County Council work session where officials introduced Placer.ai, a location analytics platform. The platform uses anonymized cell phone data to analyze movement patterns and visitation trends, providing insights into economic impacts and planning needs. The data revealed that out-of-market visitors generate varying levels of tax revenue, with February visitors contributing more than those in August. The county is using this data to inform future policy decisions, particularly in areas like transportation and housing.
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Valley Glen Residents Frustrated by Abandoned Home Nuisance

Valley Glen Residents Frustrated by Abandoned Home Nuisance

Residents in Valley Glen are expressing frustration over an abandoned home that has become a significant nuisance in their neighborhood. Despite multiple attempts to engage local officials to address the issue, the situation remains unresolved. The abandoned property has reportedly become a source of concern for the community, potentially attracting unwanted activities and affecting the neighborhood's overall safety and aesthetic appeal. The lack of action from local authorities has left residents feeling neglected and increasingly concerned about the potential long-term impact on their community.
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Jane’s Walk Stamford Encourages Community Exploration of Downtown Spaces

Jane’s Walk Stamford Encourages Community Exploration of Downtown Spaces

Jane’s Walk Stamford is set to take place on May 2, 2026, inviting the community to explore the downtown area through a guided walking tour. This event is part of the global Jane’s Walk initiative, inspired by urbanist Jane Jacobs, which aims to engage participants with their surroundings and each other. The walk will be led by architectural historian Wes Haynes and Stamford Downtown Special Services District President Michael Moore. It will begin at Emerson Hall, a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and proceed along Bedford Street. The tour will highlight the evolution of Stamford’s urban core and the character of its public spaces. The event is free and open to all ages, promoting community engagement and historical appreciation.