Montgomery County Councilmembers Natali Fani-González and Andrew Friedson have introduced the “More Housing N.O.W.” package to increase housing supply, lower costs, and create more homeownership opportunities for residents.
The comprehensive plan includes:
- Workforce Housing Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA): Permits diverse residential developments along major corridors, mandating 15% workforce housing in specified zones. An interactive map detailing affected parcels is available online.
- Workforce Housing Opportunity Fund: To be discussed in this year’s budget sessions.
- Office-to-Housing ZTA and Subdivision Regulation Amendment (SRA): Facilitates the conversion of office spaces into residential units.
- Office-to-Housing Tax Abatement Bill: Offers tax incentives for such conversions.
- Increased Investment in Homeowner Assistance Program: Proposes doubling current funding, subject to budget approval.
Interactive Map of Workforce Housing ZTA
The Workforce Housing ZTA would expand residential development options along key corridors while requiring 15% of units to be workforce housing. It applies to the R-200, R-90, R-60, and R-40 zones along Boulevards, Downtown Boulevards, Downtown Streets, Controlled Major Highways, and Town Center Boulevards. Eligible corridors must have a master-planned width of more than 100 feet and at least three existing travel lanes.
A digital interactive map allows residents to explore affected parcels within the proposal.
View the interactive map here.
Town Halls and Opportunities for Input
- Kensington Town Hall: Monday, March 3, 7-8:30 p.m., Kensington Town Hall, 3710 Mitchell St. Virtual participation via Zoom is available. Join via Zoom.
- Virtual Town Hall: Wednesday, March 5, 7-8:30 p.m., via Zoom. Register.
- Mid-County Citizens Advisory Board Meeting: Thursday, March 20, 7-9 p.m., virtual session. Visit website.
Public Hearing
The County Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed ZTAs and bills on March 11. Residents can sign up to testify through the council’s website.
Photo courtesy Councilmember Natali Fani-González’s Facebook.
