Periodically, I’m asked questions. Here are the Q’s and A’s.

Question: If you had to choose between adding 100 houses in the Conservation Zone, or 100 apartments in Winslow, which would you prefer?

Answer: On the surface, that’s a straightforward either/or scenario—but in reality, it’s more complex, and the specifics really matter.

For example:

  • The “Conservation Zone” isn’t an official zoning district, so I’d need more clarity on what that refers to—likely one of our more environmentally sensitive areas but definitions vary.

  • Are those 100 houses single-family homes? If so, are they rentals or owner-occupied? On septic or sewer? Public or private water? What size parcels? Shoreline?

  • What protections would likely be required—Aquifer Recharge Area designations? Stormwater management?

  • And for the 100 apartments in Winslow: Are we talking market-rate, subsidized, or mixed-income? Is there existing infrastructure to support them—like sewer, water, transit, and parking?

These details matter because my goal is to support growth in places where it aligns with our infrastructure, protects our natural systems, and meets actual community need—especially when it comes to affordability and sustainability.

If forced to choose, I generally favor concentrating growth in Winslow and other designated centers—if it can be done in a way that’s affordable and well-served by infrastructure. But I’d want a lot more information before weighing in definitively.

Question: Do you think COBI should rezone for the minimum housing growth required by HB 1110, or should we go above and beyond?

Answer: To go beyond the minimum growth required by HB 1110, we’d need to ensure the basics—water, sewer, and infrastructure—are available, affordable, and sustainable. Can we do it? Possibly. But should we? I believe a cautious, fiscally responsible approach that protects our natural resources and long-term livability is the wiser path for Bainbridge right now.

Question: When you say "prioritizing affordable housing", does that include using COBI funds to subsidize it? If not, what instead?

Answer: A diverse housing mix makes for a stronger, more resilient community. Right now, Bainbridge lacks smaller, more affordable homes—for young families starting out and older residents looking to downsize. I support using COBI funds to help incentivize the creation of these types of dwellings. All types of housing are needed—from rentals to ownership, small units to multi-bedroom homes—so people at all stages of life can live and stay in the community they call home.