M E M O R A N D U M

To: Pete Sprague, Assembly President

Members of the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly

Thru: Dale Bagley, Borough Mayor

Thru: Max Best, Planning Director

From: Crista Cady-Hippchen, Planner

Date: July 22, 2004

RE: Ordinance 2004-27 Approving Birch and Grouse Ridge Subdivision Local Option Zoning District (LOZ) as Rural Residential (R-R) and Amending KPB Chapter 21.46

The Kenai Peninsula Borough (KPB) is in the process of platting Birch and Grouse Ridge Subdivision in the Cooper Landing area. Prior to the sale of parcels the owner, KPB, is requesting an LOZ district be formed that includes the entire subdivision. Because the property is under single ownership, LOZ Area and Petition Requirements (KPB 21.44.040) are not required.

The Cooper Landing Advisory Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the Birch and Grouse Ridge subdivision plat and R-R LOZ district at its February 24, 2004 meeting. On August 23, 2004, the KPB Planning Commission will make a recommendation regarding the formation of the R-R district, and that recommendation will be reported to the Assembly.

The accompanying map depicts the proposed R-R LOZ district. Pursuant to KPB 21.44.170, an R-R district allows single-family residences and secondary uses including parks, playgrounds, schools, community centers, libraries, churches, and some home occupations. The minimum lot size for R-R districts is 100,000 square feet. Due to topographical constraints, the R-R rear yard setback of 40 feet will not apply to the lots in this district.

Development and sale of parcels in the Birch and Grouse Ridge Subdivision will be done in phases. The Land Management Division plans to conduct the sale of phase 1 parcels in the fall of 2004, subject to assembly approval.