The Somersworth City Council adopted Ordinance 19-25, an amendment to Chapter 19 (zoning) that updates rules governing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), including a clarified definition of accessory dwelling units and expansions to where and how they may be created.

Councilor Witham, who moved for adoption, said the ordinance “expands the ability for properties to utilize accessory dwelling units” and noted the council had spent extensive time discussing square-footage and habitable-space definitions. Councilors said the language strikes a balance between increasing housing options and preventing unintended overdevelopment.

The ordinance had been amended at an earlier meeting and the adoption followed two public hearings held that evening; no members of the public testified at the hearings. After the motion to adopt, the City Clerk conducted a roll-call vote. The recorded votes were: Councilor Witham — yes; Councilor Goodwin — absent; Councilor Cameron — yes; Councilor Barry — yes; Councilor Pepin — yes; Councilor Benson — yes; Councilor Gibson — yes; Councilor Charity Catanzaro — yes; Councilor Michu — yes. Ordinance 19-25 was adopted.

Councilors and staff said the ordinance can be amended in future if implementation reveals unforeseen issues. The council asked staff to monitor outcomes and report back if changes are warranted.