Residents Rally Against Controversial Land Development Proposal

Residents of a Kennewick neighborhood expressed strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed zoning change for a 1.7-acre parcel of land. The land, located near busy highways and a residential area, has been the subject of development discussions for over a decade, with only a coffee shop established thus far.

Homeowners voiced concerns about the potential impact of increased commercial development on their quality of life, citing issues such as traffic congestion, noise, and the possibility of obstructed views. The proposed zoning change from C-1 to C-2 would allow for a wider range of retail businesses, which residents argue could lead to significant disruptions in their neighborhood.

Key points raised included the limited access to the property, which is currently only reachable via a lane leading to the coffee shop. Residents highlighted the challenges of navigating the busy intersection at Center Parkway, where visibility is restricted and traffic is expected to increase due to nearby developments.

The homeowners also questioned the rationale behind the zoning change, noting that they already have access to shopping options within a short drive. They argued that the proposed changes could devalue their properties and lead to further environmental degradation, as no comprehensive environmental review has been conducted.

In response, the applicant clarified that while the zoning change is being sought, the intent is to maintain existing building height restrictions and ensure that no new uses would be authorized beyond what is currently allowed. However, residents remain skeptical, fearing that future changes could lead to larger developments that would further encroach on their residential area.

The meeting concluded with a call for more transparency regarding the potential developments on the site, as residents expressed a desire to understand what could be built before any zoning changes are approved. The city staff acknowledged the concerns but reiterated that state law exempts certain zoning changes from environmental review, leaving residents feeling uncertain about the future of their neighborhood.