GODDARD, Kan. (KWCH) – The City of Goddard approved regulations on duplex developments within city limits.
The vote, which took place on Monday evening, was unanimous. This package of regulations includes:
- Capping the number of duplexes allowed to be built at 40% of a development
- Requiring developments to include at least one “active amenity” which will be owned and maintained by the developer or by a homeowners’ association
- This can include things like a swimming pool, playground, clubhouse or dog park.
- Requiring a lot to have two trees before being issued a certificate of occupancy
- Developers will have the option of paying a fee to the city to get the trees planted, instead of having the trees planted before a certificate of occupancy is issued.
- Requiring developments to design a maximum of five different unit styles, to prevent each house from looking the same
- There must be at least two lots separating a repeating design pattern.
- Requiring windows to make up at least 10% of the front wall of the home – although this can include sidelights, transom windows and other transparent or glazed elements
- Prohibiting garage doors from covering more than 60% of the front of future duplexes
- Making sure each newly constructed duplex built at grade and without a basement will include a storm shelter or a safe room
The new regulations take effect after being published in the official city newspaper.
“This evening was the culmination of a lot of work, conversations and research,” said Craig Crossette, Goddard City Manager. “We had great conversations with the development and building community. We’ve worked with [the Wichita Area Builders Association] to address concerns represented to them by their membership.”…