City Council Holds Hearing on Accessory Dwelling Unit Tax Amendments

Canton City Council convened on August 8, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the city’s regulations on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), a move aimed at addressing housing needs in the community. The council opened the meeting with a prayer led by Associate Pastor Leonard Akers, emphasizing unity and hope for the future.

The primary focus of the meeting was a public hearing on proposed tax amendments regarding ADUs. Mary Baker, a city representative, outlined key changes to the development code, including allowing one ADU per lot in specific zoning districts and setting limits on the size of these units to no more than 50% of the principal dwelling's habitable floor area. Additionally, the proposal requires that either the principal dwelling or the ADU be owner-occupied, a stipulation that has raised concerns among potential investors.

During the public hearing, resident Mark Crosby expressed his apprehensions about the proposed regulations, arguing that the 50% size limit could deter investment in affordable housing options. He highlighted that many older homes in the city, which could qualify for ADUs, have smaller lots that may not accommodate such restrictions effectively. Crosby urged the council to reconsider these limitations to foster more affordable housing solutions for residents earning lower wages.

Council members engaged in a robust discussion following the public input, considering the implications of the proposed regulations. They acknowledged the need for flexibility, particularly for homeowners facing hardships that might prevent them from occupying their properties. The council discussed the possibility of allowing variances for specific cases, which could provide relief for homeowners needing to rent out their ADUs temporarily.

The council plans to revisit the proposed amendments in their next meeting, with a focus on refining the regulations to balance community needs with the interests of property owners and investors. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial in shaping Canton’s approach to increasing housing availability and affordability in the coming years.