Community leader warns of housing crisis in Monroe County

During a recent government meeting in Monroe County, community members voiced significant concerns regarding housing policies and property rights, emphasizing the need for more accessible homeownership opportunities. One speaker highlighted the importance of homeownership as a pathway to wealth and community stability, urging officials to revise the proposed Comprehensive Development Ordinance (CDO) to facilitate the American dream for families in the area.

Franklin Andrew, a long-time property owner, shared his frustrations stemming from ongoing disputes with the county over property easements and restrictive zoning laws. He recounted a legal battle that began in 1992 when the county attempted to impose a walking path through his land, a case he ultimately won. However, he expressed dismay that the county still claims an easement on his property, which he argues limits his ability to develop it further.

Andrew criticized the current CDO, stating that it would only allow for two additional residential structures on his 210 acres, a restriction he deemed unreasonable. He warned that such regulations could lead to inflated property prices, making it impossible for families to afford homes in Monroe County. He also pointed out that existing land use restrictions, including parks and conservancy easements, have already diminished available land for development, contributing to rising property taxes that threaten the viability of family farms and long-term residents.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community aspirations for growth and the regulatory frameworks that govern land use, with residents calling for a more balanced approach that supports both development and the preservation of community character.