STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) — Leaders in Stevens Point are debating an ordinance that would allow homeowners to add on rental units to their current property as a way of adding more affordable housing in the city.
Mayor Mike Wiza says the city is considering what is known as “Accessory Dwelling Units” or another residence on your current property. That could mean an apartment or smaller living space above a garage or the so-called “mother-in-law” suite or a cottage in the backyard.
Wiza notes that should the smaller properties be allowed they would need to be built up to all current city codes regarding buildings and setbacks and would also require their own utility hookups and meters. That would protect the renter from possibly having their water or power shut off because the primary property owner isn’t paying their own bills.
“We don’t want people putting up four cottages in their backyard. You have to have separate utilities, setbacks. All guidelines have to be followed including maximum occupancy,” said Wiza.
The idea would be to allow the dwellings to become another affordable housing option. Wiza says they’d be ideal for someone who wants to get themselves into a home of their own in the short term but finds it difficult to save for a down payment.
“If you are paying $1,000 to $1,200 a month in rent you don’t have a lot of money left to save to save [for a down payment and closing costs]. Especially if you are a young family starting out or a single person,” said Wiza.
Wiza knows the proposal has caused many to perk up their ears because it could mean big changes to their neighborhoods, but he says at this time it is just a proposal. Alders have been holding meetings in their districts to solicit feedback about the idea. “If you have feedback, contact my office or Community Development. More importantly, contact your Alderperson because they are the ones that are going to vote on it.”
Other topics Wiza discussed with WSAU’s Mike Leischner include:
Start of video- continuing of outdoor music and other summer events
4:30- New fire training facility
9:50- Division Street improvements
15:50- Accessory Dwelling Units
