There will be a Legislative Public Hearing on Monday, March 16, 2009 - 7:30 p.m. at the Board of Education, Board Room 10910 Route 108 in Ellicott City to consider a proposal,
"amending the Howard County Zoning Regulation’s definition of
Age-restricted Adult Housing to allow an exception of up to 20 percent
of the units within age-restricted adult housing developments to be
unrestricted in terms of age occupancy requirements except for the
existing restriction applicable to children under 18 years of age; to
delete an existing exception relating to surviving household members 50
years or older; and generally relating to age-restricted adult housing."
This is, of course, an important change in general, more important indeed to those who live near neighborhoods with this type of zoning. I would strongly suggest that anyone with an interest in this issue attend the hearing, to hear the reasoning behind the request. I have always had a concern for the long-term effect of shifting demographics on the demand for this type of housing..... I didn't think the market would make it an issue this quickly!
I have always been concerned that, over time, as there are less people who are over 55, there will be less demand for this type of housing. In fact, their response to the current market has shown the over-55 crowd to be cautious, and their demand for this type of housing to be relatively elastic. What will happen to this housing stock when there is no longer enough demand? Prices will drop, and some of these communities will find themselves in a similar situation to many homeowners right now...... lost home value. This will create an incentive for changes in the zoning to allow a broader ownership, which will bring in those under 55, which will bring in children, which will affect the schools.
What are the Guiding Principles of County Growth? Where is the Vision?
This legislation is being introduced by the Chairman, at the request of a developer. As a long-time County resident, I am sometimes frustrated with a perceived lack of vision with regard to the overall growth and planning in the County. Zoning regulations are the steering wheel, accelerator, and brakes of development.... but they don't plan the trip! When you have a vision, and you know where you are going, the trip is much easier. If anyone doubts the importance and staying-power of vision, just look what an impact Jim Rouse's vision for Columbia has had on all the subsequent development in Columbia!
I look forward to hearing this proposal presented, to hear their argument, and to see what is being done in other communities.