Ulster County Committee Delays Tiny Home Proposal for Veterans

The Ulster County Legislature’s Housing and Transportation Committee has postponed a decision regarding a proposal to utilize surplus county properties for tiny home developments aimed at providing housing for homeless veterans and other vulnerable groups. The proposal, which was introduced by Legislator Herbert Litts, seeks to repurpose county assets to alleviate the reliance on temporary accommodations such as motels.

During the committee meeting on October 9, 2023, Litts highlighted the challenges faced by individuals living in motels, indicating that many are forced to move every 30 days, which hampers their stability and self-esteem. “Living out of a suitcase in not very nice accommodations does absolutely nothing for a person’s self-esteem,” Litts, a Republican from Lloyd, stated. He emphasized the need for permanent housing solutions, suggesting that the county currently spends approximately $13.3 million annually on motel rooms for the homeless.

Among the locations proposed for tiny home developments is Paradise Lane in New Paltz, where the county is already constructing an emergency communications center. Litts pointed out that this site could facilitate easier utility connections, as the county is already engaged in infrastructure work nearby.

While committee members expressed general support for increasing affordable housing options, there was skepticism regarding the feasibility of the tiny home concept. Committee Chairman Jeff Collins, a Democrat from Woodstock, raised questions about how Litts’ proposal differs from existing county initiatives. Other members cautioned that an exclusive focus on tiny homes might limit broader development opportunities.

Legislature Chairman Peter Criswell commented that the proposal seemed to lack input from key administration officials and county department heads, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to housing solutions. “I just think we have to have a holistic approach,” Criswell, a Democrat from Kingston, said.

Litts responded by noting that he has had multiple discussions with County Executive Jen Metzger and her administration regarding the proposal. He described the policy as “another tool in the county’s toolbox” for addressing homelessness.

As the committee concluded the meeting, it opted to delay a vote on the proposal. Democrats Eric Stewart of Marbletown, Debra Clinton of Gardiner, and Greg McCollough of Kingston offered to collaborate with Litts to refine the proposal before it is presented to the full legislature for consideration.

The discussion around tiny home developments underscores ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness and the need for innovative housing solutions in the region. As the committee works towards a consensus, the focus remains on finding effective strategies that can provide lasting stability for those in need.