Commissioners revise fee structure for new homes to ensure fairness

A significant shift in building fee structures was the focal point of the Kirkland Planning Commission meeting on May 8, 2025. The commission discussed a proposed change that aims to exempt the first 2,500 square feet of residential construction from certain fees, a move designed to ease the financial burden on smaller homes.

Commissioner Jacobson highlighted the rationale behind this adjustment, explaining that the new structure would allow homeowners to build up to 2,500 square feet without incurring the full fee. He noted that only by exceeding this threshold—specifically, by constructing an additional 2,000 square feet—would homeowners reach the previously proposed fee of $45,000. In practical terms, this means that a typical example home, which is around 2,900 square feet, would now pay approximately $17,000 instead of the higher fee.

This change is intended to create a more equitable fee system, ensuring that smaller homes are not penalized with the same fees as larger constructions. The commission aims to balance the financial responsibilities of homeowners while still requiring larger units to contribute more to the city's infrastructure.

As discussions continue, the commission is focused on refining these proposals to support diverse housing options in Kirkland. The anticipated outcome is a fairer fee structure that encourages the development of smaller, more affordable homes while still addressing the needs of larger projects.