Montgomery County needs more affordable housing, and some faith-based organizations are land-rich and want to help.
That is why councilmembers Kate Stewart and Andrew Friedson cosponsored the FAITH -based affordable housing zoning text amendment to make it faster, easier and more affordable for houses of worship and private schools to build townhomes and low-rise apartments on their land.
FAITH stands for Facilitating Affordable Inclusive Transformational Housing.
The proposal is co-sponsored by every councilmembers so seems sure to pass. During Tuesday’s public hearing, 13 of the 15 speakers spoke in favor of its passage.
Currently, multi-unit housing is not permitted in residential detached zones, and townhouses are only permitted as either a limited or conditional use.
This amendment would allow construction of multi-unit living and townhomes in residential detached zones as a conditional use when they are associated with houses of worship and private schools.
The land must be near public transportation and consist of at least two acres. The buildings cannot be taller than 60-feet, and the development must have a minimum of 35% open space.
The next step is for the council’s Planning, Housing & Parks Committee to hold a work session March 11.
During Tuesday’s public hearing, Benjamin Berbert noted that the county planning board “is very supportive.”
Rev. Willaim Edward Green of Silver Spring United Methodist Church said the amendment would “be another tool in a tool kit” to enable his church to continue serving 3,000 residents weekly with food, rental assistance and other guidance.
William Hegwood of Germantown called it “a shot in the arm” in a fight against exclusionary zoning. Priscilla Knia of AARP said affordable units such as what is proposed is truly needed for the growing population of older adults here.
Susan Albertine, president of the Montgomery County League of Women Voters, said this will “open the door to increase the supply of housing that is affordable” and will “free up land that is underutilized.”
Quentin Remein, of Cloverly Civic Association, spoke against the proposal, saying it would be better suited in urban areas only. Ellen Mann also voiced her opposition, saying it would hurt the environment and increase flooding and wildfires as forest areas are eliminated.
Today we’re hearing from congregations, residents, and housing advocates about why the council FAITH ZTA (24-01) will tackle our housing crisis and enhance communities by making it easier for houses of worship and private schools to build affordable housing. pic.twitter.com/Tj41zAOkqF
— Councilmember Kate Stewart (she/her) (@cmkatestewart) February 27, 2024
