Waverly council adopts state-mandated ADU ordinance; approves grants, project payments and proclamations

The City of Waverly City Council on July 7 adopted Ordinance No. 1170, adding a chapter to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) under the Waverly Municipal Code. The council passed the ordinance on a unanimous vote and also approved a series of resolutions, a mayoral appointment and a proclamation for the return of the Shield Bantam Company timeline.

The ordinance change was presented as a compliance action after a new state law that took effect July 1 requires municipalities to permit ADUs that meet local zoning limits. Mayor Mark Anderson, presiding, read the ordinance and led the council through the required second and third readings. No members of the public spoke during the hearing.

Why it matters: the ordinance updates local zoning to allow smaller, detached or attached secondary units on the same parcel as a single-family dwelling. Supporters said ADUs could accommodate multigenerational living and modest infill housing; critics said the council was compelled by the state and questioned potential effects on neighborhoods and taxes.

Council debate and staff clarifications

Councilmember Draco (full name not provided in the record) said the measure was “being mandated by the state legislature,” and voiced frustration that the Legislature was directing local housing rules. Mayor Mark Anderson said the ordinance implements the statutory size limits in practical terms, noting “These ADUs are small houses, 1,000 square feet or 50%…