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Council weighs implications of West Virginia Senate Bill 659 for Harpers Ferry's historic district
Summary
Council members debated the effects of Senate Bill 659, which enables accessory dwelling units; concerns included loss of local control, impacts on the National Historic District, parking, and the potential for increased short-term rentals; the council agreed to consult the town attorney and to arrange a meeting with the bill sponsor.
Harpers Ferry’s council held an extended discussion of West Virginia Senate Bill 659, which standardizes rules for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) across the state. Council members expressed concern the law’s 'one-size-fits-all' approach could undermine local protections for Harpers Ferry’s National Historic District and provide a pathway for more short-term rental properties.
Steven Castle, who had earlier commented during public comment, said the bill is “a great example of bad legislation” and argued it could allow ADUs without off-street parking and remove requirements for separate water meters. He told the council the town should examine how the state law intersects with the town’s zoning, Appendix A, and historic-preservation rules.
Council members discussed options including convening three representatives to meet with the town attorney to identify what ordinances could be clarified or enacted consistent with the law. Several members said the town should ensure ADUs remain subject to existing architectural and setback rules; others suggested raising the question of requiring a resident on the lot or other high-level, broadly applicable requirements for properties in the historic district.
The council directed staff to schedule a meeting with counsel (and, if appropriate, the bill sponsor) and designated three members to work with the attorney to prepare specific questions and possible ordinance measures.
