Commission denies Dessler request to use RV as a permanent residence at Mormon Lake

The commission voted on Aug. 27 to deny CUP 25-20, a request by the Dessler family to use a recreational vehicle as a permanent residence on a 0.28-acre parcel on Lakeshore Drive at Mormon Lake.

Staff summary and proposal: Staff explained the parcel is within a small, older subdivision of nonconforming lot sizes and that the applicant proposed a park-model RV with a metal cover and small deck; the applicant said use would be seasonal and that water would be hauled and wastewater disposed at a dump station. Staff recommended approval subject to conditions.

Public comment and concerns: Several nearby property owners filed opposition. Concerns included the visual character of the RV in a neighborhood with stick-built cabins, whether park-model RVs fit neighborhood character, and notice/neighboring property ownership consolidations. Supporters and one nearby neighbor said earlier temporary uses had occurred and expressed support, but opposition centered on the small lot size and the effect on neighborhood character.

Commission deliberation and vote: Commissioners said they were sympathetic to the applicant but found they could not make required finding B (that the proposed use would not be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity). Multiple commissioners noted the lot’s small size, the neighborhood character of mostly stick-built cabins, and substantial neighborhood opposition. Vice Chair Wilson moved to deny CUP 25-20 citing inability to make finding B; Commissioner Hayward seconded. The motion to deny passed unanimously.

Procedure and next steps: Commissioners and staff noted the applicant can continue to seek temporary-use permits (TUPs) for seasonal occupancy; the denial applies to a permanent-residence CUP on a sub-acre lot.