City Council Reviews Rezone Request to Expand West Kemp Commercial Use
- Steve Jurrens
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Watertown City Council conducted the first reading of an ordinance Monday night proposing a zoning map amendment for property located on West Kemp Avenue. The request seeks to change a portion of the parcel, to be known as the Innovative Adjusters Addition, from R2A Single-Family Attached Residential to C3 Highway Commercial District.
The request, which the Planning Commission unanimously recommended, covers property near 812 and 820 West Kemp Avenue.
Community Development Manager Brandi Hanten presented the proposal, explaining that the same entity owns the two properties. The primary purpose of the rezone is twofold:
1. To allow for additional storage for the existing C3 commercial use at 812 West Kemp.
2. To ensure the existing residence at 820 West Kemp remains appropriately zoned as R2A residential and in conforming status.
Hanten noted that even with a portion of the residential lot being transferred to C3, the remaining R2A parcel would still be conforming to its zoning district. If approved, the property will be administratively re-platted to separate the lots according to the proper zoning designations, and a utility easement will be established to encompass an existing gas line.
During the discussion phase, Councilman Michael Heuer inquired about separation measures between the newly proposed C3 commercial area and the adjacent R2A residential zone, particularly regarding the storage of business materials.
Hanten confirmed that fencing requirements would apply to provide separation between the commercial storage area and the residential properties.
Heuer also questioned the rezone's alignment with the city's comprehensive land use plan, noting the property's location and unique zoning configuration—a residential area situated between two commercial zones.
Hanten confirmed that the area meets the plan, suggesting this corridor may see further commercial growth in the future…
The ordinance will proceed to a second reading and a vote at the next City Council meeting in November.
