KC unveils predesigned homes as OP residents push back
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Illustration: Maura Losch/Axios
Predesigned homes are gaining traction in Kansas City, even as Overland Park faces backlash in getting its own program off the ground.
Why it matters: City leaders want housing that's easier to build and more affordable for residents as Americans spend more of their income on where they live.
Driving the news: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas on Tuesday announced seven pre-approved home plans that allow builders to skip the architect fees and design delays while expediting the permit process.
- Styles include one- and two-story homes, a duplex, an above-garage unit and a tiny home.
- A statement to Axios from Lucas' office says builders could save $800-$6,000 in design fees and speed the process by up to three months.
State of play: KCMO's program follows Overland Park's Portfolio Homes program, which launched in November and provides a list of 26 home plans to address OP's "missing middle."
Zoom in: Overland Park planners recommended a pilot zoning rule for Portfolio Homes to streamline the process and keep project approvals mainly in the hands of the planning commission and out of council.
- Residents at a City Council meeting Monday raised concerns that the amended ordinance would hurt their ability to appeal projects, getting rid of guardrails and reducing city transparency.
- A majority of councilmembers approved a modified pilot zoning code that requires a simple majority by City Council for final approval.
Context: Overland Park's finance committee recently recommended evaluating city property along Switzer Road for a Portfolio Homes concept, which would sandwich smaller homes between the road and existing backyards.
- Nearby residents spoke out against the plan, saying that land along the road was supposed to be kept as green space
What they're saying: "I feel like we are going to get appeals on every project that comes through because we're going to be dealing with infill," Ward 1 Councilmember Holly Grummert said at the meeting.
- Will Ruder with the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City said the "rapid deterioration in homebuilding conditions and homebuying conditions" requires zoning innovation and flexibility, adding his support for the program.
What we're watching: Lucas' office said KCMO's program should fit within its current zoning districts and does not require rezoning.