Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Use topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Benton City Council approves two duplex conditional-use permits and a lot-split variance
Summary
On June 17 the Benton City Council approved two conditional-use permits allowing standalone 2,400-square-foot duplexes and granted a variance to split a large parcel in the Legion Heights neighborhood, following planning-staff recommendations and prior Planning Commission approval.
Benton City Council on June 17 approved two conditional-use permits to allow duplex construction and granted a variance to split a large lot within the city’s Legion Heights neighborhood.
Planner staff told the council the permits (CUP 25-05 and CUP 25-06) would allow standalone 2,400-square-foot duplexes on two adjacent lots, each requiring four parking spaces per unit (eight spaces per duplex) and on-site measures for stormwater. "This is a conditional use request to construct a stand alone 2,400 square foot residential duplex," the Planner said during the presentation.
The Planning Commission had unanimously recommended approval on May 27, 2025. After a brief council review of parking, stormwater and site design requirements, Council member (speaker 4) moved to approve CUP 25-05; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The council took a separate, but similar, vote to approve CUP 25-06.
The meeting also addressed Variance V-25-1, filed by Erin Knutson, who seeks to divide a 13,900-square-foot parcel into two smaller lots in Legion Heights. Planner staff explained the subdivision’s history, noting that many lots in Legion Heights predate current zoning and are smaller than today’s minimum R-2 lot size of 7,200 square feet. "The applicant requested this variance so she can divide this property," the Planner told councilors and noted the Planning Commission’s prior approval.
Councilors questioned potential future impacts, including setbacks and whether future building proposals would require additional review. After discussion, Council member (speaker 4) moved to approve the variance; the motion passed by voice vote.
Votes at a glance: CUP 25-05 — motion moved by Council member (speaker 4), seconded by Council member (speaker 5); council recorded 'aye' votes and the motion passed. CUP 25-06 — moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. Variance V-25-1 — moved and seconded; approved by voice vote.
The council packet included site plans, GIS maps and the Planning Commission staff report. Planner staff noted requirements for irrigation service connections to the Benton Irrigation District and required landscaping and curb work prior to occupancy. The council did not attach additional conditions beyond staff recommendations.
The land-use decisions were the most substantive planning actions on the June 17 agenda; the council moved on to other agenda items after the votes.
