Opponents to the change like the aesthetic uniformity of the bricks, and assert it keeps homes safe from pests and prevents water from freezing, while advocates for other options suggest less expensive alternatives may attract young people seeking home ownership.
Catesby Denison, Planning Director for Caswell County, suggests painted 20 gauge or thicker metal and concrete fiberboard could be viable options, noting that the brick foundation can cost $5,000-$6,000.
Bill Bush served on the planning board when the ordinance was first passed, does not want to see it changed, arguing that it would only help salesmen who want to move more MH into the county.
Keith Blalock said many people cannot afford the brick, noting $750 can buy underpinning that works just as well.
Rachel Smith said the ordinance is good for the county’s tax base and wants to keep it intact.
Roger McCarter said the ordinance has prevented his disabled son from siting a home on his property. He said, “Not only is it $5000 for the brick, you have to dig a footing and pour concrete which is another $2000. It can throw you out of your debt ratio so fast.”
Brad Lovin, Executive Director of the North Carolina Manufactured and Modular Homebuilders Association, said, “It is just a simple flexibility to allow families to choose another option other than brick. When you talk about the foundation, it is not really a foundation. It’s just a façade. It’s not load bearing, there is no weight on that underpinning.”
The commission voted to have the proposal changed to allow brick or cement fiberboard as underpinning and have staff bring it back for the next meeting. ##
(Photo credit: Royal Homes of Raleigh)
