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Public commenter urges cottage-style starter homes and regional planning
Summary
During the public-comment period, Susan urged the county to support small 'cottage' starter homes, changes to zoning, and cooperation with cities and the regional planning commission to help young people buy homes rather than rent indefinitely.
At the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Aug. 6, a public commenter identified by the chair as Susan urged the county to explore ‘‘cottage’’-style small homes and zoning adjustments that could yield starter ownership opportunities for younger residents.
Susan described visiting examples in other cities and said the approach could yield small homes on tight lots with rear parking and shed storage, calling the concept a way to help people move from renting to owning. “Who wants to rent forever?” she asked, arguing the county and cities should coordinate and that regional planning could help replicate successful small-home models. She recommended outreach to cities and the Strafford Regional Planning Commission to pursue zoning and redevelopment options.
Commissioners acknowledged zoning and building-code constraints and the high cost of construction; they framed the county’s role as convening partners and providing a practical example where possible.
