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Resident urges county to allow "tiny homes" and temporary units while repairs continue
Summary
During public comment, Sherry Morgan urged the county to allow code-built tiny homes and temporary units for storm-impacted residents, cited a North Carolina fire-marshal contact who said quick approvals are possible, and encouraged the board to consider emergency-authority options.
Sherry Morgan of Waynesville told commissioners she and volunteers have been facilitating tiny homes for displaced residents across Haywood, Madison and Yancey counties and said properly built units—with kitchens, bathrooms and safety devices—can meet code and provide immediate shelter.
"He could approve a tiny home in one day if basic safety is in place, such as what his heat source is intended to be used and gas and smoke detectors," Sherry said, referencing her conversation with North Carolina Fire Marshal staff. She urged the county to use emergency authorities where appropriate and to share information with residents about what structures are permissible and how they can be brought to code.
Chair Kevin thanked Sherry for her work and said the county will review the code and follow up; commissioners and staff noted the importance of distinguishing true tiny homes from nonhabitable storage buildings and ensuring safety and inspection requirements are met before placements.
