At public comment, Jean Milburn, a former Economic Development Committee member and longtime advocate for housing solutions, addressed the committee to propose organizing a public education campaign on ADUs. Milburn, who cited successful efforts in California, emphasized the economic appeal of ADUs to homeowners and their potential to generate housing units without relying on public subsidies. She argued that this type of development aligns private interest with public good, as residents can create rental units on existing lots at a fraction of the cost of new construction. Milburn also proposed developing simplified permitting pathways and educational materials modeled on best practices from California municipalities, where pre-approved ADU templates and cost-estimating tools are in use.
Committee members, including Chair Mary Antes, expressed enthusiasm for Milburn’s proposal. Janot Mendler de Suarez suggested building toward a fall housing forum by creating an “educational arc,” including public outreach and departmental engagement. She noted that the Human Rights, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee has agreed to co-sponsor the forum, which will emphasize both income-restricted affordable housing and “affordable by design” alternatives. Katherine Provost proposed beginning community outreach before the fall to introduce ADU concepts and dispel confusion. She noted that many homeowners are unfamiliar with the acronym and potential benefits.
Rachel Bratt emphasized that the ADU effort falls squarely within the Housing Partnership’s existing mission and thanked Milburn for her advocacy at Town Meeting, where Wayland passed a new ADU bylaw. Kathleen Boundy noted the committee’s long history with ADU advocacy, dating back to the original bylaw effort over a decade ago.
Discussion then focused on the regulatory and logistical barriers residents face, particularly around permitting and septic system size limitations. Members recommended initiating a process to engage the building commissioner, Board of Health, and other permitting departments to reduce friction.
Milburn noted that the current Town Manager, Michael McCall, is in the midst of department restructuring and suggested this moment offers an opportunity to align departmental procedures with the new ADU law. The committee agreed to draft a letter to McCall outlining its interest and proposing collaboration.
Provost will contact Town Planner Robert Hummel to request that ADUs be placed on the agenda for an upcoming Affordable Housing meeting. Committee members also raised the possibility of Milburn joining the Partnership, though changes to the committee charge may be required to formally create a vacancy.
