Planning board approves KOA parcel split and rezone to allow caretaker residence

The Grand Island Planning Board approved a request from KOA to split the 410 Lang Boulevard property and rezone a smaller northern portion from M‑1 to North Business so it can accommodate employee housing for the general manager.

Gary Keller, who identified himself as a project manager for KOA corporate properties, told the board KOA now requires general managers to live on site year‑round and is proposing a single‑story caretaker residence tucked behind the pickleball court and maintenance shop. “KOA is now requiring all general managers to stay on the property year round,” Keller said, describing the company’s operational policy.

Board members discussed wetlands, a feeder stream prone to blockage and localized flooding behind the property, emergency access and fire‑department reach, and the potential effects of merging the rezoned parcel with the campground. An engineering staff member noted wetlands and a feeder stream that crosses the property, and the applicant said there are no plans in the near term to add cabins or tent structures in the area identified as prone to flooding.

The board approved the rezoning and directed that the easterly parcel be merged into the KOA campground zoning; the vote approved the rezoning as shown on the applicant’s drawing dated 03/13/2026. Members noted that the eventual caretaker residence will require a separate site‑plan application to address fire access, parking, and any wetlands or stormwater concerns.

The approval covers only the zoning map amendment and parcel merger; the applicant must submit a site plan for detailed review and permitting.