Ulster County Delays Tiny Home Proposal for Vulnerable Populations

The Ulster County Legislature’s Housing and Transportation Committee has delayed a decision regarding a proposal aimed at using surplus county properties for the development of tiny homes. This initiative is intended to provide housing for homeless veterans and other vulnerable populations. The proposal, introduced by Legislator Herbert Litts, seeks to reduce the county’s reliance on motel accommodations, which he argues are inadequate for long-term living.

During the committee meeting on October 9, 2023, Litts highlighted the challenges faced by individuals living in temporary motel situations. “Living out of a suitcase in not very nice accommodations and moving every 30 days was not a way to live and does absolutely nothing for a person’s self-esteem,” he stated. Litts emphasized his desire to see these individuals in permanent housing rather than being shifted between various counties.

The financial implications of the proposal are significant. The county reportedly spends approximately $13.3 million annually on motel rooms used as temporary housing for the homeless. Litts believes that tiny homes could offer a more stable living environment, fostering a sense of purpose and dignity for those in need. He proposed considering sites such as Paradise Lane in New Paltz, where the county is currently constructing an emergency communications center. This site could be suitable due to existing infrastructure developments, including utility lines being run beneath the Thruway.

While the proposal has garnered support for its intent to create more affordable housing, Democratic members of the committee expressed reservations. They questioned the feasibility of the tiny home concept and whether other housing options had been adequately explored. Committee Chairman Jeff Collins raised concerns about how Litts’ proposal differs from existing county initiatives. Some members suggested that focusing solely on tiny homes might limit broader development opportunities.

Legislature Chairman Peter Criswell noted that the proposal appeared to lack input from administrative officials and department heads, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to housing solutions. “I just think we have to have a holistic approach,” Criswell remarked.

Despite these concerns, Litts maintained that he has been in discussions with County Executive Jen Metzger and her administration regarding the proposal. He reiterated that the policy, which would mandate consideration of all county properties as potential sites for tiny homes, would serve as “another tool in the (county’s) toolbox.”

Ultimately, the committee decided to postpone the vote on the proposal. Democrats Eric Stewart, Debra Clinton, and Greg McCollough expressed their willingness to collaborate with Litts to develop a policy that could be presented to the full Legislature for consideration.

The ongoing discussions around the tiny home proposal reflect broader conversations about housing affordability and the need for innovative solutions to support vulnerable populations in Ulster County.