Section 802 Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

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.