Owensboro planners introduce accessory dwelling units as a housing option; commissioners raise questions about enforcement and short-term rentals

Brian Howard, executive director of OMPC, introduced accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to the Owensboro City Commission on Aug. 19, 2025 as an option to increase housing variety and density in established neighborhoods.

Howard said ADUs are "a smaller secondary residential unit that's on the same property with a primary residence" and described common forms — detached units, above-garage apartments, converted basements and attic or upper‑floor units. He said jurisdictions typically limit ADUs to one per lot and set maximum size thresholds, and he offered 50% of the primary dwelling as an example starting point.

Howard told commissioners ADUs can create an income stream for homeowners, increase housing stock without building new subdivisions and allow family…