To: Planning and Zoning Commission
From: Ethan Flanders, Planner I
Subject:
Title
PUBLIC HEARING: Consider a request for a Specific Use Permit (SUP) to allow the property owner to reside in the existing 1,565 square-foot home for the purpose of living in and overseeing construction of a 7,231 square-foot permanent residence, on approximately 1.3 acres of land, located on the north side of Knox Road, approximately 695 feet northwest from the intersection of Knox Road and Ottinger Road, legally described as Lot 1, Block 1 of the Knox-Ahlers Addition, zoned Single-Family 36,000 square-foot lot size or greater (SF-36) and addressed 1611 Knox Road. Danny Ahlers, Applicant/Owner. (SUP-2508-0033).
Background:
The Applicant has lived at 1611 Knox since 2017 and currently resides in the existing main home on the property. The Applicant has a building permit under review for a new 7,231 square-foot residence. He is requesting to remain in the existing home for the duration of the new home’s construction, which is anticipated to be completed in approximately 24 months.
Because the property is less than 1.5 acres - the UDC requirement to have an accessory dwelling unit - the existing home would have to be demolished upon completion of the new home. Following construction of the new home, the Applicant will demolish the existing home within 6 months of the final building permit.
Timeframe:
The Applicant expects the construction timeline will be approximately 24 months from start to finish, allowing time for permitting processes and supply chain disruptions.
Existing Structures:
The UDC allows for a maximum of 2 accessory structures in the SF-36 zoning district.
There are currently three existing detached accessory structures on the 1.3-acre property:
1. Existing Shop (775 square-feet). The property was recently approved for an SUP and building permit to expand this structure to 1,325 square feet.
2. Treehouse (80 square-feet)
3. Greenhouse (120 square-feet). Used solely for agricultural purposes, so it does not apply toward the maximum number of structures allowed.
If this SUP request is approved, then there will temporarily be 4 accessory structures on the property, with 3 counting towards the maximum allowed. The Applicant is requesting a variance to temporarily allow for more than 2 accessory structures on the lot.
Request:
1. An SUP to allow the Applicant to reside in the existing 1,565 square-foot structure for 24 months during construction of a new primary dwelling.
2. A variance to temporarily allow for more than 2 accessory structures on the property.
Summary:
Section 8.02 (F)(2) of the UDC states that when considering a SUP request, the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council shall consider the following factors:
1) The use is harmonious and compatible with surrounding existing uses or proposed uses;
2) The activities requested by the applicant are normally associated with the permitted uses in the base district;
3) The nature of the use is reasonable and appropriate in the immediate area;
4) Any negative impact on the surrounding area has been mitigated; and
5) That any additional conditions specified ensure that the intent of the district purposes are being upheld.
Citizen Input:
On September 11, 2025, the City mailed out 17 letters of notifications for this Public Hearing to all property owners within three-hundred feet (300’) of the subject site. A public hearing notice sign was posted on the site.
Staff has not received any written support or opposition to this request.
Alternatives:
The Planning and Zoning Commission has the following options when considering a Specific Use Permit:
§ Recommend approval as submitted.
§ Recommend approval with modified or additional condition(s).
§ Table the agenda item to a specific date with clarification of intent and purpose.
§ Recommend denial.
City Council Action:
If the Planning and Zoning Commission takes action and makes a recommendation on this agenda item, then this Specific Use Permit application will be scheduled for City Council action on October 21, 2025.