City Seeks Input on Cottage Housing Demonstration Projects
Accepting Applications for Resident Representation on Cottage Housing Committee
KENT, Wash. – August 20, 2009 –Residents within the vicinity of two proposed Cottage Housing Developments are invited to learn what each of the proposed projects include and share their comments at two public meetings.
Project Site: Apple Lane Cottages (26041 116th Avenue SE)
Public Meeting: Thursday, August 27th, 7-9:00 p.m.
Kent Commons, Mill Creek Room, 545 4th Ave N, Kent
Project Site: Blueberry Cottages (11518 SE 240th Street)
Public Meeting, Monday, August 31st, 6-7:00 p.m.
Kent School District Offices, Mount Adams Room, 12033 SE 256 St, Kent
Since passage of an ordinance allowing the introduction of cottage housing, two proposals meeting the City’s basic criteria have been received.
Cottage housing offers a unique home ownership option that appeals to smaller families, young professionals and empty nesters. The homes are built on small lots and clustered around a large, outdoor courtyard.
Kent’s ordinance allows development of two cottage communities, with each home being 1500 square feet or less with a maximum of 24 and a minimum of six cottages per development.
According to Councilmember Jamie Danielson, these homes attract those who want to own a detached home, but don’t necessarily want all the space and upkeep that comes with a typical development.
“Pedestrian oriented design, with large front porches, and common open space allows people to actually see their neighbors, unlike those homes where once residents enter their garages, there is little interaction, said Danielson. “While it might not be for everybody, this type of housing provides a real sense of community for those living there.”
Cottage Housing Committee Seeks two Kent Residents
Danielson, who is Chair of the Planning and Economic Development Committee said after the neighborhood meetings are held, the proposals will be reviewed by the Cottage Housing Committee. The committee will analyze the proposals based on compliance with cottage housing development standards and selection criteria. “We’d like to have two residents serve on this committee along with myself, the Chair of the Land Use and Planning Board and City staff.”
Parties interested in serving on this committee (18 years or older and living within Kent’s city limits) should submit their name, contact information, address and short statement as to why they want to serve on the committee and value they bring to the process to: Katie Heinitz, City of Kent Planning Services, 400 W Gowe St, Kent, WA, 98032 or email kheinitz@kentwa.gov
Contact:
Michelle Witham, Community and Public Affairs
253-856-5709
mwitham@kentwa.gov