community,” he explains.“We took the approach that we need all types of housing, because not everybody wants a tan, three bedroom, two bath, 1200 square foot ranch. Some people want to live in luxury apartments, some people want to live in townhouses or smaller houses. Some people want to live in a 5000 square foot house.” In 2020 the city modified its zoning to eliminate as many barriers to development as possible. Over the past five years, approximately 500 new housing options have been built, with another 1,000 planned or in the planning stages.As a result, the city expects its population to reach 19,000 to 20,000 by the next census. “We have some brand new homes for sale in New Haven that are around the $215,000 price point that are town homes, which is really unheard of in the market.And that’s because we are allowing homes to be built that match the market needs and the market appetite for pricing,” he acknowledges. A PRO-BUSINESS APPROACH When it comes to economic development, McMichael says, “We are definitely open for business. We’re a very pro business community.” With an administrative philosophy that is focused on getting to the “yes,” the city maintains flexibility in zoning and regulatory decisions to accommodate business and industrial growth. “For example,” he adds, “somebody may propose a housing development or a business, and it may not exactly fit our zoning. We can figure out a way to identify why that investor in the community wants or needs that to happen, and we can explain why our ordinance is the way it is. Usually, we’re able to come to a really good middle ground.” One of the city’s most significant projects is a 300acre mixed-use development in partnership with Card & Associates. This $500 million initiative will feature youth sports facilities, a medical center, retail spaces, housing, entertainment, and hospitality.“That live, work, play situation is going to be a dynamic addition to the community,” Mayor McMichael underscores. 156 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 03
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