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City Council, community members discuss guesthouses in single-family neighborhoods

detached ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu
Detached ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu
Basement ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu
Basement ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu
Second floor ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu
Second floor ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu
Attached ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu
Attached ADU, courtesy of coloradosprings.gov/adu

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- Community members and city officials gathered at City Hall Tuesday night to discuss if accessory dwelling units -- known as ADUs -- should be allowed in neighborhoods zoned for single-family homes.

ADUs -- often referred to as mother-in-law suites or guesthouses -- are residential units that are smaller than the main home and include a sleeping area, bathroom, and kitchen.

ADUs can come in a number of forms:

  • Above a detached garage
  • A separate structure in the backyard
  • Attached to the main home
  • A converted basement or attic

“The majority of council is weary about detached," City Council President, Richard Skorman, said during the town hall. "But we don’t want to eliminate any discussion."

The topic has become controversial as advocates for ADUs say they provide much-needed housing options and could drive the cost of rent down.

“Oftentimes an ADU is accessible for people of all mobilities," explained Claire Anderson, who works for Innovations in Aging with the city.

People opposed to the addition of ADUs in areas zoned for single families say it could mess with their privacy.

“We purchased in there because of the distance between the homes, and I can get in my hot tub without people seeing me, thank God," said Patty Pignotti who lives in Falcon Estates.

Others say it would hinder the character of city neighborhoods, and devalue their homes.

“Please don’t, in the name of PC and all kids of ideologies, take away from neighborhoods that people have invested in, that have worked for, want to preserve - because it’s not going to solve your housing problem," said Sari Escovitz.

KRDO crews plan to speak with city council members to see what came of Tuesday’s town hall, and what they plan to discuss next time.

We'll also be getting community members' opinions.

City Council has announced one more ADU town hall scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 4, before they initiate a final vote on the matter.

Article Topic Follows: Local News

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