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Resident questions two‑year accessory‑apartment renewal cycle; board explains change to increase inspections
Summary
A Medford resident told the Town of Brookhaven board he was surprised to learn accessory‑apartment renewals had changed from a five‑year to a two‑year cycle and said he received no mailed notice; the board responded that more frequent checks were instituted after widespread illegal apartment complaints across districts.
A town resident raised concerns during public comment about a change in the accessory‑apartment renewal schedule and associated fees.
The speaker said he recently discovered the renewal interval had been shortened from five years to two years and that he received no mailed notice prior to a new bill. He asked why legally permitted accessory‑apartment owners must renew so frequently and said the higher frequency and fee felt punitive for residents who comply with requirements.
In response, board members said the town’s experience with illegal accessory apartments across council districts motivated the change. The town’s law department and board members reviewed renewal frequency and concluded more frequent inspections were necessary to ensure units remain owner‑occupied and meet safety rules; the board invited the resident to discuss the matter with staff for additional detail. The board did not change the policy at the meeting.
Why it matters: Accessory‑apartment rules affect housing stability and the finances of homeowners who rent accessory units for supplemental income; the board said the change aims to address illegal units and ensure safety compliance.
What happens next: Town staff offered to engage with the resident for details and the board signaled the change will remain in effect pending any further legal review or board action.
