Council approves 13 on‑site low‑income for‑sale units as alternate compliance for Old Town Lepofsky project

City staff presented the Lepofsky Homes (Old Town) project and explained the proposal to provide 13 on‑site affordable for‑sale units targeted at 80% AMI as an alternate means of compliance in lieu of paying the housing impact fee. Deputy community development director Interiano described two buildings (Building A: 60 units; Building B: 28 units) with a mixed unit mix, 1,620 square feet of commercial space, and parking and rooftop amenities.

Interiano explained the affordable program: 13 low‑income units deed‑restricted for 45 years, a local Newark preference for purchasers, resale/equity sharing with the city on sales per state law, and program administration details to be finalized by the city’s forthcoming housing program manager. Staff estimated illustrative pricing ranges for income‑qualified buyers under current median incomes (examples provided for one‑ and two‑bedroom units) and noted that HOA fees would be included in affordability calculations.

Council discussed unit counts (13 actual vs. a higher nexus table recommendation of 15 for condos), local preference implementation (point system for residents/workers), outreach and application publicity, HOA fee impacts on affordability, and how the city would monitor affordability over time. Council moved and approved the resolution adopting the alternate means of compliance; the vote carried with one recusal recorded.