Work SessionItem 1Outcome pending
Discussion of Potential Changes to MR-2 & MR-3 Zoning Districts
A joint work session of the Richfield Planning Commission and City Council was scheduled to discuss potential updates to the MR-2 (Multifamily Residential) and MR-3 (High Density Residential) zoning districts, which staff described as outdated and impractical. The discussion was expected to focus on 'Tier I' high-level design standards covering building size, placement, height, setbacks, and parking as part of a three-tiered modernization approach. No rezonings of specific properties were proposed at this stage — the effort was framed as updating the rules that govern how multifamily buildings are designed and built in these districts.
final tally arrives when the city publishes the minutes
Part of an ongoing matter · 1 related discussion
Key figure: Met Council Livable Community Act Policy Development Grant (amount not specified) — Grant funding supports the zoning update process; funds must be used by June 30, 2026.
Potential benefit
If approved, these zoning updates would make it easier to build 'missing middle' housing — such as small apartment buildings and multiplexes — on infill lots throughout Richfield, potentially increasing housing supply and supporting affordability. The changes are designed to align with the city's 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which targets medium-density areas at up to 35 units per acre and high-density areas at up to 100 units per acre, while also promoting walkable, pedestrian-friendly design.
Concern to consider
Increased density in MR-2 and MR-3 zones could raise concerns among existing residents about neighborhood character, traffic, parking availability, and the pace of change in established residential areas. Because the modernization covers two zoning districts simultaneously and involves multiple tiers of standards, the full scope of changes may not be clear to the public until later phases of the process.
What happens next: Staff outlined a detailed timeline: a project website and postcard mailer to affected property owners were planned for March 2025, along with outreach to the Chamber of Commerce, Realtors Association, and housing advocacy groups. Tier II and III standards (covering building design details, exterior materials, lighting, and screening) were expected to be assessed March through April 2025, with a second work session planned for May 2025 to review those parameters. Additional public engagement was anticipated from May through July 2025.
Sources: Work Session agenda (city portal) ↗