Durango City Council to Vote on Controversial ADU Restrictions
UPDATE: The Durango City Council is poised to vote on a pivotal ordinance that could reshape local housing options by loosening restrictions on accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The meeting is set for Tuesday, October 3, 2023, and community members are gearing up to voice strong opinions both in favor and against the proposed changes.
If approved, the amendment would eliminate minimum parcel area requirements, impacting approximately 400 properties in established neighborhood zones 1-3. Currently, only integrated ADUs are permitted, but this change would allow for detached units, providing homeowners with additional housing options.
Community Development Director Jayme Lopko argues that ADUs are a crucial solution to increasing housing availability. “They utilize existing infrastructure, do not require extensive approvals, and facilitate family living arrangements,” Lopko stated at a recent Community Development Commission meeting. However, several residents are raising alarms over potential downsides.
Opponents, including local resident Martha McClellan, believe that the introduction of ADUs could deteriorate neighborhood character and exacerbate existing traffic and parking issues. “This proposal could lead to more congestion and noise, impacting our quality of life,” McClellan warned. She emphasized that the construction costs for ADUs are around $500 per square foot, making them unlikely to provide affordable housing solutions.
Public sentiment is divided. Resident Jean Walters expressed concern that the demographic of ADU residents has shifted from family members to younger tenants, leading to increased noise and traffic disruptions. Meanwhile, Bruce Garlick cautioned that these changes could compromise Durango’s small-town charm and exacerbate parking shortages.
Concerns also extend to infrastructure capabilities, with some questioning whether the city’s water and sewer systems can handle the increased density. Lopko reassured that the additional units would not significantly burden existing systems, as they are already connected to current utilities.
In contrast, Joan Fauteaux, the government affairs director for the Durango Area Association of Realtors, advocates for the ordinance, highlighting it as a step toward addressing the ongoing housing crisis. She suggests that ADUs can create valuable infill opportunities and recommends exploring incentives for homeowners to prioritize long-term rentals for local workers over short-term vacation rentals.
Echoing the call for diverse housing solutions, resident Sweetie Marbury has consistently raised the issue during public comment periods, arguing that easing ADU restrictions could benefit a wide range of residents, from young professionals to the elderly.
The ordinance will be introduced at the council meeting on October 3, with the potential for a public hearing scheduled for October 21. As the city navigates this contentious issue, the outcome will significantly influence Durango’s housing landscape and community dynamics.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops. This vote is not just about housing; it speaks to the very essence of what Durango means to its residents.
