Narragansett reviews housing ordinances amid ADU concerns and variances challenges

The Narragansett Town Council convened on February 18, 2025, to address several pressing issues regarding local housing regulations and community development. The meeting focused on the implications of recent state mandates on local ordinances, particularly concerning accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and density regulations.

The session began with a discussion on the challenges posed by the current density and floor area ratio (FAR) regulations. A resident expressed concerns that the existing ordinances, revised in 2021, have made it prohibitively expensive to apply for variances, particularly for small additions to homes. The resident highlighted that the cost-benefit analysis of adding even a modest 300 square feet to their home is discouraging due to the high upfront planning costs and the stringent requirements that have emerged since the 2021 changes. They urged the council to reconsider the regulations to better accommodate families needing additional living space, such as for elderly relatives.

The council acknowledged the resident's concerns but noted that the issues raised would not be resolved in the current meeting. They recognized the need for a balanced approach to housing regulations that considers both community needs and state mandates.

Another resident, Joseph Volpe, emphasized the critical shortage of affordable year-round housing in Narragansett. He pointed out that many young families and professionals struggle to find housing due to high market prices. Volpe praised the potential of ADUs to provide additional rental income, which could help families afford homes in the area. He argued that allowing ADUs could effectively double the number of families living in a single property, thereby enhancing community stability and school enrollment.

The discussion also touched on the potential for utilizing substandard lots for ADUs, which could help maximize available space and provide housing solutions for families who might otherwise be unable to afford to live in Narragansett. Volpe commended the town for aligning with state initiatives to promote housing development and expressed optimism about the opportunities this could create for local families.

Steven Ferandi, another resident, raised concerns about changes to ordinances regarding the maximum number of unrelated individuals allowed per bedroom, which he felt needed further clarification and discussion.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to continue exploring these issues and to engage with the community on potential adjustments to the housing regulations. The council recognized the importance of balancing state mandates with local needs to foster a more inclusive and accessible housing environment in Narragansett.