Planning commission approves variance for multifamily housing on corner lot

The Kenai Planning and Zoning Commission approved a variance May 13 allowing two new multifamily structures to be built closer to Cacnew Way than standard zoning allows. The vote was 5-0.

The variance permits the property owner to build 10 feet from the road instead of the standard 20 feet. The 0.46-acre corner lot has frontage on both Candlelight Drive and Cacnew Way. Under the approved plan, the sole entry will be from Candlelight Drive. The secondary access on Cacnew Way will be eliminated.

Property owner Jonathan Coates said trees already obstruct the view within 10 feet of the road. He said removing those trees and complying with city landscaping requirements will address visibility concerns.

Nathan Valentine, who lives at 212 Baker Street, testified against the variance. He said the area already has a three-unit multifamily dwelling across Candlelight Drive. He said children play frequently at the corner of Candlelight and Cacnew.

Valentine said Cacnew Way has a lot of raw land and abandoned houses. He said he would like to see more single-family dwellings and families living there.

Katie Way, a realtor who sold the land, said the city had established that the community needed more multifamily housing as it grows. She said the buildings will not be closer to the road than the existing trees.

Commissioners said eliminating the Cacnew Way access will improve safety by reducing driveway conflict points. One commissioner said the variance will open up visibility at the intersection. Another commissioner said demand for lower-cost housing makes multifamily development more feasible than single-family construction.

The variance requires the applicant to obtain applicable permits and file all required landscape and site plans before beginning construction. An aggrieved party may file an appeal with the clerk's office within 15 days.