Kate Curry D'Souza Advocates for ADU Regulations to Combat Columbus Housing Crisis

In a recent public hearing, Columbus residents voiced their concerns and hopes regarding the proposed regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), a potential solution to the city's ongoing housing affordability crisis. The meeting highlighted the importance of ADUs as a means to provide affordable housing options while also addressing the need for clear guidelines to prevent exploitation by developers.

Kate Curry D'Souza, a resident and former chair of the Near East Side area commission, emphasized the historical significance of ADUs in Columbus neighborhoods. She argued that these units could offer seniors a dignified way to age in place and allow families to live closer together. However, she warned that without proper regulations, ADUs could become investment vehicles rather than community assets. D'Souza pointed out that some developers are currently using loopholes to build larger structures under the guise of ADUs, which undermines the intended purpose of these units.

To ensure that ADUs serve the community effectively, D'Souza proposed several key regulations. She suggested that ADUs should not exceed two stories or 50% of the primary home's square footage, and that the property owner should reside on-site to prioritize long-term residents over short-term rentals. Additionally, she called for a prohibition against lot splitting, which would prevent the separate sale of ADUs from the main home.

D'Souza also raised environmental concerns, urging the city to protect its tree canopy and manage stormwater runoff as density increases. Her recommendations aim to create a framework that supports affordable housing while maintaining the integrity of Columbus neighborhoods.

As the city grapples with housing challenges, the discussions surrounding ADUs could play a crucial role in shaping a more accessible and equitable future for all residents. The feedback from this public hearing will likely influence the development of policies that balance the need for housing with the preservation of community values.