The bill amends Section 45-24-46.1 of the General Laws regarding inclusionary zoning. It allows municipalities to include various methods for fulfilling affordable housing requirements in their zoning ordinances, such as off-site construction or payment of a fee in lieu of building affordable units. The bill mandates that zoning ordinances require a minimum of fifteen percent (15%) affordable housing units in new developments of ten or more dwelling units, with these units remaining affordable for at least thirty (30) years through land leases or deed restrictions.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for density bonuses, allowing developers to add one market-rate unit for each affordable unit required, with local regulations providing relief from dimensional requirements to accommodate this bonus. Notably, the bill includes a specific provision allowing the town of Johnston to determine its density bonuses based on its underlying zoning.

The bill also outlines the process for utilizing fee-in-lieu payments, which must be reviewed by the planning board and are not eligible for administrative review. The fee amount is calculated based on the difference between the maximum affordable sales price and the average development cost of affordable housing, with a minimum fee set at forty thousand dollars ($40,000). Municipalities are required to allocate these funds for affordable housing development within three years and maintain oversight through a local affordable housing board. The act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2699: 45-24-46.1