Commission asks staff to study accessory dwelling units for seniors and caregivers

Commissioners directed staff to research accessory dwelling units and possible ordinance changes after staff reported receiving inquiries from residents seeking small backyard units to house elderly relatives or provide round-the-clock care.

Staff (Staff member, Speaker 3) said the requests ranged from small units for a senior who needs some independence to units for people needing 24-hour care. "I thought it'd be a good idea to have that discussion here this evening as to whether or not we want to explore this option within the city limits or not," staff said. Staff noted other communities sometimes limit ADUs by size or eligibility, for example restricting them to 55-and-older households or to residents needing continuous care.

Commissioners generally supported staff pursuing research, consulting public works about infrastructure impacts, and returning possible ordinance language and policy options to the commission for future consideration. No ordinance changes were adopted at the meeting; the item was a direction to staff to develop proposals.