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29 On motion by Rev. Edwards, seconded by Ms. Slaughter, the ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE CLOSING, VACATING AND DISCONTINUING A PORTION OF NINTH STREET, S.W." was offered and carried over to the next meeting for consideration. Ms. Daugherty asked Mr. Huja if he believes the neighborhood will be served well enough as a result of the street closing, and Mr. Huja said that the neighbors will have to walk farther, but it will be safer. Mr. Toscano noted that the original plans called for a cul de sac that would have barred pedestrians from crossing. ORDINANCE: AMENDING ZONING ORDINANCE (RE: ACCESSORY APARTMENTS IN R- 1 ZONE) Mr. Huja explained that the Planning Commission recommended that accessory apartments be allowed in dwellings with 1,400 square feet of floor area in R-lA and R-1 zones, similar to those currently allowed in R-IA zones that have 1,600 square feet. The Planning Commission felt the change would help elderly home owners stay in and maintain their homes. Two off-street parking spaces must be provided, the accessory apartment could not exceed 400 square feet and house no more than two persons, and the owner must occupy one of the units. Ms. Slaughter said that the logic of the square footage requirements of both the unit and bedroom does not make sense and appears arbitrary, and she noted that many older neighborhoods do not have off-street parking Ms. Slaughter expressed concern that the proposed ordinance does not meet the expressed need. Mr. Huja noted that if the changes are adopted, the City will no longer have a zone that is exclusively single family. Mr. Toscano asked if the Planning Commission discussed the effect of increased density on neighborhoods, and Mr. Huja replied that the Planning Commission discussed the issue of protecting the neighborhood while providing opportunities for choices. Mr. Toscano said he would be more inclined to reduce the square footage to 1,400 in R-lA zones and see what the impact is. Ms. Daugherty said she feels the ordinance would be an aid to people who might otherwise not be able to afford to continue to live in their homes. Ms. Slaughter said she is not prepared to support the form of the proposed changes because of the density concerns. Ms. Slaughter noted that she has not heard from any citizens who feel the change is important. Mr. Vandever said he shares the concern about increased density. It was agreed that the matter would be tabled and that the Council will discuss the matter with the Planning Commission to see if there are other ways to address the perceived need for accessory apartments. PUBLIC There were no matters by the public. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. O'Connell announced a pothole hotline that citizens can call to report potholes in streets.