Carson City Supervisors approve zoning amendment for proposed west side subdivision
Submitted by Kelsey Penrose on Thu, 12/01/2022 - 11:24am
On Thursday, the Board of Supervisors approved a zoning map amendment regarding a proposed development on N. Ormsby Lane.
The approval came after a second reading was held on the application from KP Investors LLC, which amends an 8.41 acre parcel from single family 12,000 to single family 6,000.
The new division will create 41 single family homes in what is known as Ash Canyon SF (Single Family).
Some public commenters took issue with the proposed amendment, stating that allowing for medium density housing would increase crime and traffic.
For reference, the majority of houses on the historic west side of Carson City and the neighborhoods surrounding Bordewich Bray Elementary, Carson Middle School, and St. Teresa’s are zoned SF 6,000.
The lots immediately adjacent to the proposed property are also zoned SF 6,000.
Most of the properties zoned SF 6,000 range from around a quarter acre to half an acre.
The commenters against the project also stated that ordinance 17.10 be repealed.
According to the municipal code, 17.10 relates to Common Open Space Development, which dictates how open space can be developed.
17.10 dictates that minimum lot sizes may be reduced for “better utilization of the land and to produce a housing environment of stable and desirable character.” For lots zoned 2 acres or more, lots have a minimum required lot area that cannot be surpassed. However, for all other zoning districts, there is no minimum required lot area.
The rezoning of the property is in alignment with the master plan, according to Supervisor Lisa Schuette.
Schuette also spoke to some of the comments that came up during the meeting, which included accusations that allowing for new developments will end up “killing” the town.
“What 17.10 allows for is that instead of larger parcels spread out over a development, that homes can actually be a little bit closer and allow a trail system and open space for the neighborhood and the community.
“Do some developers use 17.10 to perhaps create a development more in line with profit or convenience? I’m sure they do. But part of the conversation is the spirit of 17.10. It’s not a zero sum game, it’s not an either/or.
“This is an opportunity to really create a neighborhood and community we all can enjoy and be proud of and participate in,” Schuette said.
The motion passed with Supervisor Maurice White voting against.
