Exploring Accessory Dwelling Units as a Housing Solution in Woodstock, GA (North Fulton Voices, Episode 8)
This episode of North Fulton Voices delves into workforce housing solutions being implemented in Woodstock, Georgia, particularly accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Hosted by Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond of the North Fulton Improvement Network, the conversation aims to address the workforce housing crisis in the region. Woodstock Mayor Michael Caldwell, Community Development Director Tracy Albers, and City Planner Cameron Dunn provide insights into ADUs, their benefits, the regulatory environment, and the impact on the community. The discussion covers the demand for ADUs, the city’s ordinance update, infrastructure investment, and broader housing policies. With a focus on maintaining a balance between ownership and rental properties, Woodstock’s approach could serve as a model for other communities, including those in North Fulton.
North Fulton Voices is presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network. The show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.
City of Woodstock, Georgia
The City of Woodstock, Georgia, is a vibrant and rapidly growing city located 30 miles north of Atlanta, with a population of over 35,000 residents.
Known as “A City Unexpected,” Woodstock boasts a dynamic downtown area that attracts over three million visitors annually, featuring world-class parks, trails, and a thriving small business community.
The city has been recognized nationally, ranking among the top suburbs and safest cities in Georgia, with a unique blend of historic charm and modern development.
Its downtown district showcases a mix of local businesses, an innovative “makerspace” called Made Mercantile, and a strong commitment to community engagement, making Woodstock a standout destination in Cherokee County that continues to evolve and inspire.
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Show Summary
Introduction
In the contemporary struggle to address housing shortages and affordability, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have emerged as a viable solution. In our latest episode of North Fulton Voices, hosts Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond of the North Fulton Improvement Network engaged with leaders from Woodstock, Georgia, to delve into how this picturesque city’s innovative approach to housing could serve as a beacon for other regions facing similar challenges.
Understanding ADUs
Jack Murphy kicked off the discussion by unpacking the concept of ADUs, defining them as additional living spaces within or adjacent to homes. Known alternatively as garage apartments, guest cottages, or in-law suites, these units are gaining traction as a practical measure against the housing deficit. Yet, existing regulations often limit their development, preventing homeowners from maximizing their property’s potential.
Woodstock’s Revolutionary Approach
Tracy Albers, Woodstock’s Community Development Director, detailed the city’s progressive steps in revamping urban ordinances to facilitate ADU construction. After assessing national trends and local needs, Woodstock has tailored its ordinance to make ADU development simple and beneficial for homeowners and the community alike. With this move, Woodstock is not just increasing the housing inventory but also empowering residents by enhancing property values and diversifying living options.
Benefits of ADUs
Mayor Michael Caldwell echoed the sentiment, underscoring how ADUs contribute to the housing landscape without the need for extensive new development. They address pressing issues like the 300,000-unit housing deficit in Metro Atlanta, offering flexible solutions while maintaining community aesthetics and quality of life.
Cameron Dunn outlined the public’s interest, noting an uptick in inquiries about converting existing structures like garages and loft spaces into ADUs. This demand reflects a growing awareness among residents about utilizing their property effectively, either for additional income or family support.
Addressing Concerns and Future Outlook
ADUs naturally raise questions about potential zoning conflicts and HOA restrictions. However, Woodstock’s ordinance harmonizes ADU development with existing residential frameworks, ensuring that homeowners retain the freedom to maximize their property’s utility without infringing on neighborhood standards.
While ADUs are often associated with modern housing challenges, they hark back to timeless practices of community-centric development. As Mayor Caldwell highlighted, cities are defined by their flexibility and adaptability, and embracing ADUs could help Woodstock retain its vibrant, family-friendly character.
Encouragement for Broader Adoption
Nancy Diamond and Jack Murphy urged listeners to consider the broader impacts of housing policy. With Woodstock paving the way, other regions can learn from its example, crafting ordinances that embrace ADUs as a mainstream option for addressing housing shortages.
Conclusion
Woodstock is a prime example of how municipalities can spearhead modern housing solutions by implementing innovative policies and engaging with the community. By re-integrating ADUs into urban planning, cities can offer residents improved living conditions while meeting future housing needs. As listeners of North Fulton Voices are reminded, it’s essential to engage with local housing policies to mold communities that reflect both current realities and future aspirations.
For more conversations on housing solutions and to stay updated on livability challenges, subscribe and join the discussion with North Fulton Voices.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Voices
01:07 Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
02:42 Woodstock’s ADU Ordinance Update
03:56 The Importance of Housing Policy
06:21 Community Response to ADU Policies
09:42 Practical Considerations for ADU Implementation
20:48 HOA Regulations and Future Developments
24:50 Addressing Public Inquiries and Informative Handouts
26:13 Attached vs. Detached ADUs: A Detailed Discussion
28:21 Financing and Zoning Considerations for ADUs
35:45 Balancing Rental and Ownership Ratios
39:33 Workforce Housing and Community Engagement
42:36 Leadership and Policy Discussions
48:31 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action
North Fulton Improvement Network
The North Fulton Improvement Network (NFIN) is a think tank made up of community leaders from a variety of sectors, focused on missing middle housing and the livability challenges confronting North Fulton. We come from the six cities making up the northern half of Fulton County, Georgia—Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs—and are working to address the widespread yet little-known financial vulnerability across the region. With stakeholders from sectors including business, nonprofit, faith, government, and citizens, we center our work on five areas of impact, seek to educate the public about these issues, build a network of individuals and organizations with innovative private and public solutions, and connect resources to those in need.
The leadership team of NFIN is Jack Murphy, Nancy Diamond, and Kathy Swahn.
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Jack Murphy
Jack Murphy is a volunteer with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul and is Chair of the North Fulton Improvement Network. He is also in his 21st year of working for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.
He has served on both the National and Georgia Boards of The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, responsible for Diversity, Advocacy, & Systemic Change. Jack is currently the national SVDP chair of Systemic Change and Advocacy.
Jack received a BA in psychology from Belmont Abbey College and a M.Ed. from UNC-Greensboro. Jack and his wife, Nancy, a retired elementary school principal, have two grown daughters and two grandchildren. They live in Alpharetta, Georgia.
Nancy Diamond
Nancy Diamond is a Project Manager with Schmit & Associates, a real estate development firm, creating town center revitalization in communities all around the metro area.
Nancy served 8 years as a Roswell City Council Member, including a term as Mayor Pro Tem, with liaison positions with Community Development, Transportation, Recreation & Parks, and Public Safety.
In addition to her work with the North Fulton Improvement Network, Nancy has been active in area non-profit organizations, including board leadership positions in the STAR House Foundation, WellStar North Fulton Hospital, and the Roswell Rotary Club.
A native of Atlanta and a 42-year North Fulton resident, Nancy worked at Turner Broadcasting in the early years of CNN, then became a freelancer in sports television graphics. While raising her two daughters, she worked from home, first developing a corporate gift service and later as a mortgage loan originator.
Nancy and her husband, Glenn, now relish the role of grandparents to 8-year-old Owen.
About North Fulton Voices
While North Fulton County is one of the most desirable places to live in the United States, the region faces a growing crisis: a severe shortage of housing options for middle-income employees, particularly essential workers such as first responders and teachers. North Fulton Voices, presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network, is the go-to source for in-depth analysis and discussion of missing middle housing and the livability challenges confronting North Fulton. Listen as we understand the implications of this problem, explore innovative solutions, and examine why providing these housing options is vital for North Fulton’s future. The show is sponsored and offered as a service to the community by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.
Sponsor for North Fulton Voices: John Ray and Business RadioX – North Fulton
The North Fulton Voices show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.
John Ray is a podcast show host and producer and owns the North Fulton (Georgia) affiliate of Business RadioX®.
John also operates his own business advisory practice, Ray Business Advisors. John’s services include advising solopreneur and small professional services firms on their value, their positioning and business development, and their pricing. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as consultants, coaches, attorneys, CPAs, accountants and bookkeepers, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.
John is the author of the #1 nationally best-selling book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.
John is the host of North Fulton Business Radio and The Price and Value Journey. North Fulton Business Radio, the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton region of Georgia, features a wide range of business and community leaders. The Price and Value Journey is devoted to solo and small firm professional services providers and covers issues such as pricing, value, and business development.
