Provisions for Granny Flats

Re “Time for Granny Flats,” Ventura County editorial, April 22.

There have been numerous legislative efforts to provide exactly the sort of housing described in this editorial. Government code provides authority to provide “granny flats” and indeed housing for students, in-home health care providers, the disabled and others at below-market prices within existing neighborhoods. The code goes on to provide further information. Clearly the intent was to provide for some very real needs.

For the county Public Works Department to routinely deny such permits in the unincorporated area is truly frightening. Such action is a disservice to those communities that attempt to honor the need for such housing.

Citing traffic as a basis for denying granny flat permits may sound like a reasonable explanation, but if that is to be the criterion then how many other residential units would be approved? May residents of a single-family home be required to limit occupancy to a certain number regardless of family size?

Yes, changes must be made and yes, they should be comprehensive. Perhaps a good start would be to observe the spirit and letter of the government code.

ELOISE BROWN

Moorpark