GEORGETOWN, Del. - Georgetown Town Council voted 3-1 to begin the process of repealing the town’s cottage housing ordinance.
The local law sets rules for cottage-style housing developments, including where they can be built, how many homes can be built and the design standards they must meet.
The issue will now go back to the town’s Planning Commission for consideration.
Affordable housing was a major part of the discussion surrounding the ordinance. Some people said Georgetown needs more housing options for people who cannot afford a traditional home.
"Affordable housing is just, it’s out of the reach of locals. And that’s ridiculous," said Karen Gantz. "That’s why I purposely didn’t even buy close to the beach because I want it to be more affordable housing."
Georgetown’s cottage housing ordinance was approved in December.
The town previously said a SB 23, which is a state law requiring towns and cities to develop affordable housing plans as part of their comprehensive plans, would better align with drafting a new ordinance.
Town leaders now want to start over with the town’s zoning rules and repeal the current ordinance.
Gantz said she does not want the town to repeal the ordinance.
"I don’t want them to repeal that. We need to have the affordable housing," Gantz said.
Some people said they oppose bringing more affordable housing into town because they believe there is already too much development happening.
Others who support cottage housing said any changes to the rules should continue to consider the need for affordable housing.
"People need to have homes and things are so expensive," said Bobbie Summers.
For now, the cottage housing ordinance remains in place. The Planning Commission will consider the proposed repeal before the issue can return to Town Council for further action.
