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Planning commission asks city commission to rework proposed RV‑park conditional‑use amendment
Summary
Planning commissioners voted to return a proposed text amendment that would make RV parks a conditional use in some residential zones, citing 12 of 16 potential code conflicts and concerns about utilities, safety and neighborhood character.
The Goodland planning commission voted to return to the city commission a proposed ordinance that would make recreational vehicle parks a conditional use in selected residential zones.
Staff had explained the proposed amendment would change two sections of the municipal code (including section 19‑502) to standardize RV park definitions and list 16 subsections describing design and operational standards. The planning commission heard staff outline those standards — including minimum tract size, site width (25 feet), setbacks, required water and sewer connections, lighting, trash control and a 50‑amp electrical service requirement — and discussed how many of those standards could be difficult to meet in existing residential neighborhoods.
‘‘I count 12 of the 16 that could be an issue,’’ one commissioner said as staff and commissioners listed potential conflicts. Commissioners and staff emphasized utility and safety concerns: staff said some blocks are served by small mains and that a prior study estimated roughly $3,000,000 of water‑main upgrades across town to address pressure and capacity in several areas. Commissioners also cited fire‑safety concerns and the potential for sewage or drainage incidents if standards are not rigorously enforced.
Rather than set the ordinance for a public hearing, the commission moved to return a recommendation to the city commission asking for further consideration and direction; the motion passed by voice vote. The planning commission recommended that if the city commission wishes to proceed, it should direct a careful evaluation of the code standards’ feasibility in residential districts and consider alternatives such as encouraging accessory dwelling units for housing needs.
Next steps: the commission’s recommendation will be sent to the city commission for its reconsideration and possible revision of the proposed ordinance.
