On March 3, 2010, the City Council will consider a resolution sponsored by Mayor Adams, Commissioner Fish, and Commissioner Leonard that will suspend burdensome Systems Development Charges (SDCs) that have been a barrier to the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). ADUs, which are commonly referred to as "mother-in-law apartments" are typically small, self contained living areas either contiguous with or separate from a main residence that have a separate entrance, kitchen facilities, sleeping areas and a bathroom. ADUs are an important component of the City's effort to achieve its affordable housing and density goals, but the current fees assessed have proven to be a barrier to the proliferation of these living units.
Currently, the City assesses SDCs that range from $7,000 - $12,000 on each ADU, a very high proportion of the total cost of constructing an ADU, which are otherwise very affordable to construct. The proposed resolution will set in motion code changes that will suspend SDCs until July, 2013.
The effort is designed to make financing for these types of investment more attainable for homeowners and builders, which will have the effect of increasing the number of affordable housing units while maximizing the efficient use of available space. Further, as people take advantage of this opportunity, the construction of these units will generate jobs for the struggling construction industry.
The resolution will be heard at the March 3 City Council meeting, which begins at 9:30 AM in City Hall.
Read the Willamette Week's blurb about it.
Posted by: TK