GREENFIELD — Those interested in learning more about a proposed ordinance that would allow in-law apartments in Greenfield can attend a public hearing Tuesday evening in the library.
The Town Council Economic Development Committee and Greenfield’s Planning Board will hold the joint public hearing to consider a proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance, which will be voted on by Town Council next month.
The hearing will be held at 6 p.m. in the library’s LeVanway Room, 402 Main St.
The ordinance would allow apartments up to 800 square feet to be built either inside existing owner-occupied homes, as additions, as new detached structures or inside existing detached structures, like garages or carriage houses. The Planning Board withdrew its original proposal in April 2015 to give members time to do more research after the ordinance proved to be controversial.
Some residents expressed concern the dwellings could harm the character of existing neighborhoods and create privacy issues.
The latest draft clarifies language and gives residents the option to seek a special permit for non-conforming, detached structures. The board has been working on the draft since early 2016.
According to the Planning Board and Economic Development Committee, the purpose of permitting the dwelling units in town is to develop housing in owner-occupied, single-family homes that is appropriate for households at a variety of life stages. The units would also increase housing density and add moderately priced rental units to the housing stock, according to both boards.
Town Council will vote on the ordinance during its August meeting.