AUGUSTA - Following the Maine House and Senate's advancement of zoning reform legislation last week, Rep. David McCrea, D-Fort Fairfield, has released a statement applauding the Legislatures historic work to address the statewide housing crisis:
"Housing issues in Maine dont just affect the southern reaches of the state. Up here in Aroostook County, the housing shortage continues to be an issue, especially for our older residents living on fixed incomes and for businesses trying to recruit workers. I am thrilled to see LD 2003 receive such broad approval. It is measures like this bill and the tiny homes bill I introduced last year, which is now law, that will really make a difference. We need to think creatively about addressing our critical housing shortage, because without significant action, its only going to get worse. Like my tiny homes bill, LD 2003 offers a creative solution by giving a great deal of leeway to towns and municipalities to set guidelines that work for them. Its critical that we find solutions that are sustainable and appropriately tailored to each community."
LD 2003 would allow Maine property owners to build accessory dwelling units in residential areas and allow up to two units on a lot zoned for single-family housing. For larger communities with designated growth areas, up to four units could be allowed. Local rules around setbacks, height and dimensional requirements would still have to be met for all projects.
These efforts are expected to increase the number of affordable units in the state of Maine, empowering Mainers to contribute solutions to the housing crisis in their own backyards. In addition, the bill would require the state to provide municipalities with grants and technical assistance as they revise zoning regulations for the modern day and update ordinances at the local level around important housing-related issues.
McCrea is serving his third term in the Legislature and is a member of the Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee and the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee. He represents Caswell, Easton, Fort Fairfield, Hamlin, Limestone, part of Presque Isle, Stockholm and Cyr Plantation, plus the unorganized territory of Connor Township.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [McCrea], c. 812-1111