The Willard Board of Alders on Monday adopted an ordinance adding rules to the cityland-development code to allow accessory dwelling units in residential zones, with limits intended to preserve neighborhood character.

Staff summarized the ordinance's key constraints: an ADU cannot exceed 80 percent of the primary residence in size, must conform to specified size tables in the code and is limited in bedrooms to keep it secondary to the primary home. The code also requires architectural design that matches the primary structure and neighborhood context.

Why it matters: The ADU change gives property owners more flexibility for family housing, rental income or multigenerational living while the board sought to avoid large or out-of-scale structures in residential neighborhoods.

Board discussion focused on safeguards to prevent developers from using ADU rules to create dense multiunit complexes. "It can't be more than 80% of the primary residence, and it can't be greater than Table B," a presenter said, adding that architectural and size limits were drafted to avoid two-story structures sited close to property lines.

Board action: Following discussion, a motion to approve the ordinance was moved and seconded; the motion passed on a recorded vote with board members voting in favor.

Ending: Staff said the ordinance includes tables and design standards that city planning staff will apply during permitting and that the changes are intended to provide modest additional housing options without materially changing neighborhood density.