Each week through the General Election, The Breeze will ask the candidates for Cape Coral City Council an issue-related question. In the interest of fairness, each candidate is limited to the same amount of words, about 100, for their response.

This week’s question:

What are your views on “accessory dwelling units?”

District 7 candidates’ answers:

Michael David Harper

As a property owner I feel that ADUs have a place in our society, providing they comply with the county/city zoning laws. That said, we need to make sure that the city sets some sort of standard for these units as most lots in the Cape would have difficulty fitting them onto their property due to easement restrictions. I would also want to make sure the consumer is well educated on all the costs associated with building an ADU (construction cost, separate utilities, higher taxes and insurance cost, possible parking issues).

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Rachel Kaduk

RachelKaduk.com

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are intended to provide additional, affordable living space on an existing property. It’s more than just a shed on your lawn. ADU’s must adhere to zoning, size guidelines, setbacks, permitting, design requirements, & more. If someone wants to put an ADU on their property that lawfully adheres to existing residential requirements, I see no reason why it shouldn’t be allowed, especially with the rising cost of living here. This can benefit families with adult children with special needs, aging parents, and young adult children in college. Property rights should always be protected.