Public Hearing to Address 'Multi-Generation' Suites

Plots laid out for the latest phase of the Menifee Hills development are located between Menifee Road and Lindenberger Road, south of Trailhead Drive.

In the years during and following the latest recession, it has become more commonplace for two or three generations of a family to live under the same roof. Whether it's an adult child moving home after a loss of income, a grandparent with health issues moving in or some other situation, multi-generation living is now a significant part of society.

Construction of multi-generation homes can be seen in some parts of Menifee, including Audie Murphy Ranch. On March 11, a public hearing will be held to address a proposal for similar housing plans in the Menifee Hills development.

Menifee Hills is a community being developed by Lennar Homes east of Menifee Road and south of Trailhead Drive, near the former "missing link" section of Menifee Road. The latest phase of the development includes a plan for houses with an 1,808-square-foot main residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus a 476-square-foot multi-generation suite including a combined kitchen/living room, bathroom and separate bedroom.

That might not be big enough for even a small family, but it might be well suited for one or two individuals. Some refer to these suites as a "mother-in-law suite." According to a study by the Pew Research Institute, 18.1 percent of Americans -- a record 57 million -- lived in multi-generational households in 2012.

The proposal will be brought before the Menifee Planning Commission March 11 at Menifee City Hall, 29714 Haun Road. The public will have an opportunity to speak during the public hearing.