This is a woefully uninformed article that reflects the "Kool-Aid" served by density zealots.

Part 1:

To begin: Yes, ADUs are a worthy concept, but the key is "accessory." Successful implementation requires that allowing ADUs in neighborhood with a generally single-family neighborhood not be a blanket permit for, and financial incentive to build rental duplexes. on every lot. And thus, a fundamental requirement is that one of the dwellings be owner-occupied.

"Springfield also is looking at ... including lifting a requirement that the property owner has to live on site and one that requires on-site parking be paved."

This is a terribly misguided contorting of the "accessory" dwelling concept. Instead, intelligent zoning, such as in the Jefferson Westside Special Area Zone, controls density by four main factors: lot size, structure size, # of dwellings & # of bedrooms. This allows a mix of housing types while maintaining the character of the established neighborhood. 

Continued ...