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The Greater Olney Civic Association last week passed a motion opposing the adoption of a proposed provision amending the housing element of the county's General Plan.

The new provision would "allow accessory apartments in residential zones by right under appropriate design standards and conditions."

GOCA members interpreted that to mean that accessory apartments would be automatically allowed unless successfully opposed by the surrounding community.

To operate an accessory apartment, county regulations require a homeowner to go through an application process, meet zoning and code enforcement requirements, and obtain a special exception.

Sharon Suarez, Housing Research and Policy coordinator for county Park and Planning, confirmed that the proposed change would allow accessory apartments without a special exception, but said they would still be required to be licensed and inspected.

Currently there are two categories of accessory apartments: residential living units (RLUs), where family members live in a portion of a home without rent, and accessory apartments, which are essentially separate living quarters on the same property. RLUs do not require a special exception and there are more of those than accessory apartments in the county.

Suarez said there are eight accessory apartments licensed in Olney, two of which are in the town center area and the rest are in the outlying rural areas.

Suarez said that as far as she is aware, the county Board of Appeals has never denied an accessory apartment, and by making the process less onerous, it could prevent people from illegally operating accessory apartments.

"I am sure this is the right thing to do, and we don't expect to see these numbers skyrocket," she said.

Suarez said Park and Planning held two public hearings in the spring.

The County Council will hold a public hearing on Dec. 1 where people may submit written or oral testimony. She said she expects a decision from the council by next spring.

Navarro visits

with GOCA members

At the invitation of GOCA officials, County Councilwoman Nancy Navarro (D-Dist. 4) of Silver Spring attended last week's meeting of the civic association, marking her first visit to the organization since being elected to office last spring.

Approximately half of Olney is included in District 4 and some area residents had not had the opportunity to meet her during the campaign season.

"I think it was good for people to have a chance to hear from her," GOCA President Sharon Dooley said.

Navarro briefly responded to several questions prepared by Dooley, including the future of the Olney Town Center, ICC tolls and crime, and noted how difficult the county's budget issues will be in the coming year.