Tiny houses were defended staunchly by Fulton resident Judy McKinnon at this week's City Council meeting.
In the end, the ordinance, which would have set minimum square-footage requirements for new home construction, was left to die for lack of action.
"I believe construction quality is more important than size," McKinnon told the City Council during public comment, adding a well-constructed building will have and hold more value than a larger, badly constructed structure.
The tiny house ordinance arose in recent council conversations after a property owner began constructing a small home along South U.S. Business 54. An ordinance was introduced recently and was tabled at the last City Council meeting in late September. It would have set a minimum size of 700 square feet for homes on "standard" city lots and 500 square feet on "substandard" lots. Tiny houses can typically be 200 square feet or larger.
It came up for discussion again Tuesday evening, but the ordinance was tabled and will die for lack of action.
McKinnon said the national tiny house movement fills a need for some people.
"Housing is expensive," she said. "Tiny houses are one form of affordable housing."
She said because they have such a small footprint, more actual yard is available for other purposes.
"There is more permeable surface and so less storm water run off," McKinnon added.
She also said people who live alone often prefer a smaller home.
"They use less energy, as well," McKinnon said. "We should all be concerned about reducing our impact on God's creation."
Mayor LeRoy Benton said the issue could come up again before the city's planning and zoning committee for further discussion.
"That will allow for additional public comment," he said.