The Brunswick Town Council is set to evaluate a proposed moratorium on mobile home lot rent increases during its next meeting. This measure aims to address concerns regarding the increasing cost of living faced by residents in the town’s seven mobile home parks. If approved, the emergency moratorium would freeze lot rent increases for a period of 180 days, regardless of any prior notifications from landlords. Violations of this moratorium could lead to fines amounting to $200 for each lot affected.
The council voted unanimously on Monday to advance the measure to a public hearing scheduled for November 17, 2023. This decision follows the allocation of $32,000 in September to fund a study on potential rent stabilization policies for mobile home parks. Town Manager Julia Henze reported that the town distributed 1,200 notices to park residents in October, informing them of an online survey available at the town clerk’s office. The study will also involve interviews with park landlords to gather comprehensive data.
Addressing Resident Concerns
The initiative for potential rent stabilization emerged from a workshop held in June, where councilors listened to park residents and deliberated on the need for a possible ordinance to regulate rent increases. Residents of Bay Bridge Estates, the largest mobile home park in the state, have been particularly vocal in their advocacy, supported by District 1 Councilor David Watson. Many mobile home owners are already facing financial strain, as they must manage lot rent alongside mortgage payments, utilities, and maintenance costs. The financial burden of relocating a mobile home can also reach thousands of dollars, leaving residents in a precarious situation if landlords decide to raise rents.
Sally Costello, Brunswick’s economic and community development director, emphasized the urgency of the council’s decision. She stated, “There are more than 1,200 mobile home lots which provide much-needed housing for thousands of Brunswick residents at or below median income level. In response to continuing complaints about rapid lot increases and escalating fees from the residents of our mobile home parks, we’re asking for this emergency action.”
If the moratorium is enacted, it will provide the town with necessary time to complete its study on mobile home rents and evaluate subsequent steps. The moratorium will specifically apply to mobile home parks where residents own their homes but rent their lots. It will not extend to two parks where residents only rent their homes.
Further Developments on Housing Policies
In addition to the mobile home rent discussion, the council plans to hold a public hearing on a separate emergency measure aimed at temporarily halting new housing developments outside of Brunswick’s designated growth zoning area. This pause is intended to allow the town to reassess its development policies. If adopted, this measure would lead to a six-month moratorium, during which the council may consider implementing a cap on new housing units in rural areas, responding to residents’ concerns regarding rapid growth.
The outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact Brunswick’s housing landscape, particularly for those relying on mobile home parks for affordable living options. The council’s proactive approach highlights a commitment to addressing housing affordability while ensuring community voices are heard in the policymaking process.
