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Denver has a list of recommendations to improve slot homes

City eyes changes after months of debate
Posted at 10:23 PM, Dec 06, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-07 00:41:18-05

DENVER -- A task force has issued a list of recommendations that would change the requirements for slot homes. The city defines a slot home as sideways-facing townhomes and the buildings have been a point of contention in Denver neighborhoods.

The proposed modifications come after months of feedback and community input. Residents have criticized the style of homes saying they don't fit in with surrounding neighborhoods, cram too many people in and lack ample parking. 

“The development community has basically taken advantage of our zoning code," said Denver City Councilman Rafael Espinoza.

Council put in place a moratorium on some slot homes back in August 2016. The garden court style buildings were meant to have a courtyard in the middle but some neighborhoods ended up with tightly packed homes and no garden.

Espinoza said the new regulations would close the garden court loophole. The recommendations include some street-facing units, increased setbacks and height restrictions. You can read the full list of suggestions here.

"I hope that other areas that are susceptible to what is now call the slot home form will get improved outcomes. You know, what’s done is done, but my hope is that we’re done doing it that way," said Espinoza.

The final proposal is still being reviewed and city council could adopt it in the second quarter of 2018.