Norfolk adopts new affordable housing plan

NORFOLK, Neb. -- The city of Norfolk has adopted a new plan for affordable housing.

Earlier this year the Nebraska Legislature required certain cities in the state to adopt an affordable housing plan. Cities with a population of less than 50,000 people, like Norfolk, had until the year's end to develop one. Failing to do so meant the state government would create a plan for cities to follow.

The plan presented at Monday's city council meeting was formed from community feedback. The city aims to have 10% of new housing units be considered affordable. They also plan for these units to be spread throughout the community and not be exclusive to one area.

City planner Val Grimes said they are focused on making affordable a more attractive offer to developers by making the process easier. 

"We're trying to encourage that more affordability in amongst the existing neighborhoods," Grimes said. "And if somebody, if somebody wants to come in with a new development, that they don't necessarily have to do a zone change...like they had to before." 

The city also plans to use grant and incentive programs. Mayor Josh Moenning said they have already taken steps to begin the process. Tiny homes were allowed in the city earlier this year, and a zoning code change has opened the opportunity for more affordable housing. Norfolk City Council said 50% of the city is residentially zoned to allow middle and middle-family housing.

The city council approved the plan in a unanimous 6-0 vote.