Planning commission approves conditional‑use permit for EMS living quarters with building‑code stipulation

The City of Green River Planning Commission on Feb. 18 approved a conditional‑use permit to convert the former teen center next to the city yard into living quarters for Emergency Medical Services personnel, with a stipulation that the space meet applicable building‑code requirements.

Commissioners and staff described the unit as a small space with kitchen facilities and a toilet but no interior shower. Staff said two EMTs are already staying in town using the facility and more are expected to come for scheduled shifts; the living quarters are intended to replace prior ad‑hoc arrangements in storage rooms or hotel rooms. During discussion commissioners emphasized the city’s interest in supporting EMS recruitment and avoiding ongoing hotel expenses.

Members focused on whether a shower is required for overnight occupancy under applicable codes. Staff estimated adding a shower would cost “a couple thousand dollars,” and commissioners instructed staff to research the precise code requirement and, if necessary, identify funding or contractor options. The commission read the city’s conditional‑use criteria (recorded in the meeting as “general criteria 10‑13‑4”) and confirmed other standards — exterior lighting, posted address and utility capacity — were met or being corrected before occupancy.

A motion to approve the permit with the condition that the use comply with applicable building codes was recorded; the minutes identify Kim McFarland and Tanya Bigelow as providing procedural support during the motion and show the motion carried with all present commissioners voting in favor. The record does not clearly identify the speaker who initially moved the motion; the commission directed staff to verify any required improvements, including whether a shower must be installed, and to return with implementation details if needed.

Next steps: staff will confirm which specific building code provisions apply, estimate any construction cost and, if required, propose budget or contractor solutions to add facilities before the permit is considered fully implemented.