Michelle Alonso, the director of planning and redevelopment, presented the proposed ADU ordinance, stressing its purpose of creating diverse housing options. The ordinance was referred to the planning board for review and comments before potentially being presented to the Municipal Council for adoption. This review is expected to address the specifics of the ordinance, such as the allowance of only one ADU per property, a height limit of 20 feet, and compliance with residential standards.

Board members raised concerns about whether property owners should be required to live in the ADU or the main house, the potential for ADUs to be rented out for maximum profit, and how this could affect the city’s affordability goals. The occupancy concerns extended to the discussion of potential loopholes that might allow non-conforming two-family homes to add a third unit in the form of an ADU, thus extending non-conforming use.

The concept of ADUs being subordinate to the primary dwelling was another point of debate, with members seeking clarity on what “subordinate” means for size and occupancy. The lack of square footage requirements in relation to the primary dwelling was a concern for some, while others emphasized the importance of maintaining affordability by ensuring ADUs remain smaller units.

Parking requirements were also discussed, with the board clarifying that one parking space per ADU is required. The regulations around short-term rentals were emphasized to prevent ADUs from being used as temporary summer rentals, which could detract from the goals of permanent affordable housing.

The debate on affordability incentives for ADUs involved the possibility of construction bonuses from the municipality’s affordable housing trust fund in exchange for imposing affordability deed restrictions. The financial implications of constructing ADUs were considered, including the substantial investment required and the potential impact on rental prices.

The board addressed the practical challenges of building ADUs, discussing the need for a broader range of housing units and increased affordability. Regulations were deliberated on, such as the location and occupancy of ADUs, restrictions on floor area, building coverage, and the placement of garage structures.

In addition to the ADU ordinance, the meeting covered the annual board reorganization, which involved the nominations and appointments for various positions, including chairperson and vice chairperson, among others. The board also designated the Asbury Park Press and the Coaster as the official newspapers for 2024 and approved the planning board meeting schedule for the same year.

Moreover, the board discussed the resolution for the approval of 527 Bangs Avenue, which was eventually approved with amendments. Members were also appointed to various committees, including the Design Review Committee, Bylaw Policy Committee, and Master Plan Committee.