Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Expressed concern that eliminating the owner-occupancy requirement would turn older neighborhoods into targets for cash-wielding corporate investors and speculators, hurting affordability.

Argued that ADUs are extremely expensive to build (costing $300k+) and will not truly provide affordable housing, while also criticizing the removal of owner-occupancy rules.

Stated that high construction costs make ADUs unaffordable without financial incentives, and warned against opening established neighborhoods to market-rate investor housing.

Representing the Frederick Housing Solutions Task Force, she noted the critical need for diverse housing options following the recent housing needs assessment, urging policy changes to incentivize ADU construction.

A Westbrook resident who supported affordable housing but argued that fee-in-lieu policies are the real problem, warning that an 800-square-foot flat rule does not fit established ranch-style neighborhoods.

Expressed concern that eliminating owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs would invite corporate and private speculators to monetize older neighborhoods, undermining affordability.

Calculated that high construction costs for ADUs make them financially unviable as affordable housing, arguing they mainly benefit investors seeking to subdivide properties.

Stated that outrageous construction expenses and lack of owner-occupancy rules will not create affordable housing, risking the deterioration of neighborhood character.

Representing the Frederick Housing Solutions Task Force, noted that housing options need to be expanded but policymakers must figure out how to incentivize true affordability.

Expressed worry over ADUs in 1950s ranch neighborhoods like Westbrook, arguing that fee-in-lieu policies for MPDUs are the real obstacle to affordable housing.