OCEAN CITY – A request to move forward with code amendments that would allow habitable attic space turned into a deeper discussion this week about parking and rentals.
On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council had before them a favorable recommendation from the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission to approve code amendments that would allow habitable areas in the attics of residential dwellings. While officials say the new provisions would address desires to build additional living space, some argued a larger discussion was needed on the impacts the amendments could have on parking and rentals.
“It’s almost like all of this needs to come together. We need to talk about garages, attics and rentals …,” said Councilman John Gehrig. “It’s all related. I think we need a holistic overview of what this means.”
In October, following a public hearing, the planning commission voted unanimously to forward proposed code amendments to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation. The changes would define dormers and habitable attics, revise the definition of building height to allow habitable attic space, and amend the minimum number of required off-street parking spaces.
In his presentation Tuesday, Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville said under the current zoning code, attics could be used for non-habitable purposes such as closet storage and loft space but could not be used for sleeping. Oftentimes, however, those rooms are converted to bedrooms.
To be totally inclusive and equitable, remember that little people don’t need six foot ceilings.
It’s my house so I’ll do with it as I please
Go away government