HomeMy WebLinkAbout08160216 Planning & Zoning Work Session Public Comments d
August 16, 2016
Re: 30x 100' lot development
Dear Planning and Zoning Commissioners,
I am opposed to increasing the potential for more 30' lot development for
the following reasons:
1 . Development on 30' lots is already occurring without any changes to the
code. Note the new houses at 422 and 424 Third Ave, and the new building
at 329 Third Ave.
2. Note as well the lack of off-street parking for many small lots. Vehicles
park along the street, increasing traffic congestion and issues with road
maintenance.
3. People have stuff. The romantic notion that a small house means the
simple, uncluttered life is often not true. Last year, a 627 square foot cottage
on a 30x 100' lot was purchased by an out-of-town owner. He then parked
his large motorhome in the alley, extending into the property to the north. A
large boat and skiff were parked in the front yard, along with a school bus,
and storage trailer. His two vehicles were variously parked on the front yard
or in the alley on the neighboring property. While this may be an extreme
case, it points out the fact that most people have stuff that does not fit on 30'
- lot, even with a small home.
4. Many of Seward's small homes and small lots are owned by non-residents
who bought them for summer use or nightly lodging. Encouraging more 30'
lots will promote more out-of-town or non-resident owners and more
seasonal use, not year-round residents.
S. Small lots are nothe essarily aio ',first time homeowners, young
or old. Subdividing a larger parcel doe create cheaper per square foot
lots, but increases the price per square foot. Small homes are still expensive
for first time homeowners.
S. The possible additional property tax is miniscule and not a good argument
for smaller lots.
1
7. Subdividing larger lots into 30x100' lots, especially in the historic parts of
Seward, will destroy trees and shrubs and other landscaping that contribute
to the beauty of Seward. Please refer to Title 15.15.025, Seward's Historic
Plant and Tree Register, that provides for public recognition of local plants
and trees, many of which are located in the area under discussion.
8. The Council's interest in smaller lots and tiny homes is inconsistent with
its decision to donate 1.7 acres of public land for up to two 6-bedroom
apartment buildings that will serve a maximum of 24 people if all the units
are 2 bedroom with 2 people per 12 units.
What is our vision for Seward? Do we want to encourage maximum density
with smaller lots? Do we want to allow three story buildings now that the fire
department has a ladder truck?
Shall we allow the creation of more small lots in residential zones that
encourages more nonresident ownership, more seasonal use, and further
exacerbates the lack of year-round housing for residents? Is there a point of
saturation?
Or do we want a livable town with adequate space for residents with off
street parking and storage space, and space for trees and shrubs that grace our
town. I vote for quality of life.
Thank you for yor.r consideration.
Carol Griswold