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Commission rejects guest-lodging special use on Cherokee Trail, citing density concerns
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Summary
The commission denied a special‑use request to permit two guest lodging units on an RU‑4 parcel west of Benson, after commissioners expressed concern that the additional units would create too many dwellings for the lot. Staff had recommended approval with conditions; the motion to approve failed 4–3.
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted to deny docket SU24‑19, a special‑use authorization request to allow two guest lodging units at 163 North Cherokee Trail (APN 124‑06‑04B) on an RU‑4 parcel near Benson.
Staff recommended approval with conditions, including quiet hours and a prohibition on parking in the roadway, and reported one written opposition within the 500‑foot notice area and two additional responses outside the area. Matthew Taylor said the guest lodging would increase the parcel—s effective residential density but that the application complied with eight of the ten factors for special use approval.
Applicant Michael Clement said the units are existing small structures (12 by 24 feet), that septic and accessory living quarters (ALQ) permits had been obtained or applied for, and that the units would primarily house family members (adult children and an elder relative) and possibly long‑term community renters; he said he intends to landscape and screen the units and would comply with recommended conditions.
Commissioners asked about on‑site vs. off‑site impacts and whether the AOQ (accessory living quarters) could be used as short‑term rentals. After discussion, a motion to approve with staff conditions failed, with four commissioners voting no; the chair and several commissioners said the lot already has the primary residence and an ALQ and adding two guest lodging units would exceed what they consider appropriate for the parcel.
Action: SU24‑19 — request to allow two guest lodging units; motion to approve with staff conditions failed (4 no, 3 yes). Applicants and staff advised of appeal rights and permitting procedures.
Speakers quoted or summarized in this article are taken from the meeting record: staff planner Matthew Taylor and applicant Michael Clement.
