Grand Prairie Council Approves 120-Day Moratorium on Certain Types of Residential Development
The City of Grand Prairie on March 2 approved a questionable 120 – day moratorium on the acceptance of any development related applications or permits for single-family attached, single family townhouse, single family – hybrid housing (build to rent), 2-family/duplex, 3&4 family, and multi-family apartment uses.
Reiterating our opposition at final reading, Dallas BA questioned both the appropriateness and lack of data presented as justification, which is required by state statute. Dallas BA commented that, not only did the evidence presented by the city regarding facilities extended beyond capacity not actually detail specific infrastructure locations, but it also did not adequately show how any claimed increase in usage could be attributed solely to the development classifications listed in the ordinance. The Association also cited how concerns about infrastructure are already addressed via an impact fee ordinance and the fact that the developments bring in additional tax base.
Dallas BA also stressed that renters are tomorrow’s homeowners, and a family does not need a mortgage to be invested in the community. This was the second time Dallas BA went on record in opposition to the moratorium.
Applicants for multifamily developments as described in the ordinance can apply for a waiver from the moratorium that must be voted on by the City Council within 10 days of receiving the request, per state law. The ordinance passed by slim margin at the City’s Planning and Zoning committee.
To view the ordinance, Click Here.