Planning Commission approves temporary RV for construction site

The Cordova Planning Commission voted unanimously May 12 to grant a conditional use permit allowing a travel trailer on Lot 2A, Block 4 of the Cordova Industrial Park for up to 12 months to house workers during construction.

The applicant requested only four or five months. City code allows temporary living quarters at construction sites for up to a year. The trailer will connect to city water and sewer.

Conditional use permits allow specific uses not normally permitted by right in a zoning district. Local zoning authorities issue them after public review when applicants meet criteria and conditions. Temporary RVs used as housing or for security at construction sites are commonly regulated as temporary or conditional uses in local zoning codes.

One commissioner said the trailer would provide security for the busy construction site. Another commissioner said the request was straightforward. The chair said the arrangement seemed reasonable.

Commissioners discussed whether the lot was large enough to accommodate the RV along with heavy equipment access during construction. One commissioner confirmed the trailer must connect to city utilities.

No public testimony was received during the hearing.

The permit requires the temporary living quarters to be removed from the lot or vacated at the end of the 12-month period. The commission approved the permit with all conditions outlined in the staff report. The lot is located in the Cordova Industrial Park, a designated industrial-zoned area used for commercial, marine, and light industrial activities.