Q: Can you share some insight on the accessory dwelling unit bill that was passed by the City Council last month?
A: The City Council approved conditions permitting the construction of an accessory dwelling unit on existing residences. I co-introduced the accessory dwelling bill as a member of last year’s Land Use and Zoning Committee for two reasons: 1) It removes some of the barriers in place so that homeowners have the ability to make the decision themselves; and 2) it is now “another tool in the toolbox” in addressing the attainable housing crisis that’s before us. The limitations of the bill include, but are not limited to: 1) the building footprint is limited to the lesser of 25 percent of the existing structure or 750 square feet; 2) it must be located behind and have similar characteristics of the primary structure and conform as a single-family dwelling; 3) the owner of the property must reside in the principal structure.

If the property is in a deeded community where the homeowners association prohibits such things, then that would supersede city’s ordinance. There are actually a number of neighborhoods where such units can be found and should the construction of such a unit happen next door to you it precludes the prospect of that home from ever becoming an investor rental property because of the residency requirement tied to the ordinance.

Q: Do you have an update on the Town Hall you hosted in November?
A: This Town Hall meeting on Nov. 2 was well attended and I’d like to thank the community members who attended. The round robin, small group discussion continues to be a popular format as it gave community members the opportunity to have a discussion with the representatives of the various city departments.

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Q: Do you have another Town Hall scheduled?
A: Yes, we will have one in January and I’ll be able to announce the date in next month’s column.

I’ve had a number of exchanges, via phone call, email, and social media, with individual constituents about a number of potential new projects on the horizon in District 6. This has prompted me to bring back the workshop format that we had prior to COVID, where the focus will be on the rezoning application process and the opportunity for neighbors to understand where they have a voice in the process and how to be the most impactful. I think this will again be very informative and timely.

Q: Do you have a comment on the recent anti-semetic events in Jacksonville?
A: It concerns me very much as it does everyone. I join our neighbors and friends in denouncing these kinds of hate-filled actions. I provided a detailed statement in my Nov. 12 email update that my office sends out, which includes the following: 

“The detestable and deeply hurtful antisemitic displays in our city of late is beyond offensive or comprehension. As your Councilman and neighbor, I am appalled. I stand with all of my Jewish friends, those in Mandarin and throughout Jacksonville, in expressing my outrage and extreme disgust.”

Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Community members can email me at MBoylan@coj.net or call (904) 255-5206.

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