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Resident says inconsistent city guidance could force $25,000–$35,000 sidewalk bill for short plat on 6th Street
Summary
Dan Decker told the council he was prevented from filing a sidewalk‑waiver application unless he short‑plats property, but short‑platting triggers a requirement to install curb, gutter and sidewalk; he said that could cost an estimated $25,000–$35,000 and that he has received conflicting answers from the city.
Dan Decker of Benton City addressed council during public comment to describe a dispute over short platting and sidewalk‑waiver rules on 6th Street. Decker said he sought a short plat but learned city code requires curb, sidewalk and gutter when short‑platting unless a waiver is granted. He said staff told him to file a sidewalk‑waiver application but then he was told he could not file the waiver because he had not first recorded the short plat.
"I put it in the city. I paid my fee. Then I was notified by the city that I can't put the sidewalk waiver application in because I haven't short platted," Decker said. He told council that if the city refuses a waiver after he short‑plats he could face "about a 25 to $35,000 bill" for curb, sidewalk and gutter and related engineering and said he could not get straight answers from staff.
Decker asked the council for help resolving apparent inconsistencies in how short plats and waiver applications are being handled and offered to provide the documentation he has obtained. Council acknowledged the concern and asked staff to follow up with Decker to review the paperwork he offered to share.
