Howard County Council bars two-family housing on small lots

Howard County (Map, News) - Attempts to limit certain new development in existing neighborhoods prevailed with the Howard County Council’s decision to bar the construction of two-family houses as a conditional use on specific lots.

“This bill doesn’t eliminate the ability to build a two-family dwelling; instead, it establishes a minimum lot size,” said Councilwoman Courtney Watson, D-District 1, sponsor of the bill that passed Monday in a 4-1 vote.

To avoid doubling density, the zoning change prevents two houses from being built on a lot smaller than 16,000 square feet that is intended for one, she said.

The change also ensures builders follow Howard’s growth guidelines that ensure adequate schools and roads for new developments, Watson said.

The council tabled a related bill that would have removed two-family dwellings as an option completely from certain residential areas.

The approved bill was amended to set the limit of 16,000 square feet — smaller than the original 20,000 square feet — which Watson said was a compromise with affordable housing advocates.

Critics had said the zoning change would hinder the inclusion of affordable housing by cutting down on density.

This was Councilwoman Mary Kay Sigaty’s reasoning for voting against the measure.

“I see this particular bill as limiting opportunities for affordable housing,” said Sigaty, D-District 4, adding the county needs a “thoughtful plan” to address affordable housing needs.

Other members echoed her calls for a comprehensive plan and said the administration is expected to unveil legislation this fall.

“That’s one of the reasons I felt confident addressing this concern,” said Council Chairman Calvin Ball, D-District 2.

smichael@baltimoreexaminer.com

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