The most significant topic addressed was the new state law mandating that municipalities allow accessory dwelling units by right within single-family zoning districts by February 2025. This law, which does not require ADUs to be owner-occupied or deemed affordable, presents both opportunities and challenges for Malden. The council was particularly focused on understanding the specifics of the law, including size limitations and parking requirements. The absence of parking requirements for properties within half a mile of public transit was a notable point of concern.

Councilor Simonelli voiced apprehensions about the potential negative impact on the Holyoke section of Malden, pointing to issues with absentee landlords and the prospect of increased dwelling units. Simonelli inquired about the possibility of imposing extra taxes on absentee landlords to address property maintenance challenges. The city planner suggested consulting with the treasurer, controller, and assessor to determine the feasibility of such measures.

Other council members echoed this sentiment.

As the council reviewed the mayor’s memo on proposed zoning amendments, they acknowledged the necessity of implementing appropriate zoning before the February deadline to address potential health, safety, nuisance, and parking concerns associated with increased ADU development. The memo detailed that municipalities could establish regulations concerning ADUs, including size and dimensional controls.

In addition to the ADU discussion, the council addressed the broader implications of zoning changes. They considered a “Plan B” proposal that introduced more flexibility in the dimensional controls of ADUs. This alternative aimed to spur discussion and gather public input for an upcoming hearing. Councilors were urged to consider all potential amendments and append them to the existing proposal to ensure transparency and avoid community confusion.

The urgency of the February 2nd deadline was a driving force behind the discussions, as the state law would override local zoning regulations if no action was taken. Councilors debated whether to adopt the highest possible requirements now, to avoid setting lower standards that could not be revised later.

During the public comment segment, several residents expressed their views on the ADU initiative. Carol Harington shared her hope for converting her single-family home into a two-family unit, while Lois Pepe voiced support for the initiative. Brian Dey’s email, read into the record, emphasized the importance of affordable housing options and urged the council to streamline the new law’s implementation.

Beyond the ADU discussions, the council also engaged in routine matters such as the approval of the consent agenda, which included meeting minutes, one appointment, and nine petitions. Councilor Simonelli expressed concerns over the potential impact of new housing developments on the city’s infrastructure, including class sizes and the capacity of emergency services.

The meeting also saw the introduction of new council committees aimed at enhancing community engagement. The Arts and Culture Committee and the Community Traditions Committee were among those established, focusing on expanding cultural opportunities and documenting local traditions, respectively. The Quadra Centennial Planning Committee was also formed to prepare for Malden’s 400th anniversary in 2049, emphasizing the need for early fundraising and planning.