The City of Ocean Shores held a public hearing on May 25, 2025, to discuss two conditional use permits (CUP25 000002 & CUP25 000003) concerning a proposed subdivision on Trustee Street. The meeting featured testimonies from local residents expressing concerns about the impact of the project on their neighborhood.
Derek Bumrungsiri, a property owner within 30 feet of the proposed site, voiced strong opposition to the subdivision. He highlighted that the project would alter the character of the area, which currently consists mainly of single-family homes. Bumrungsiri raised concerns about potential decreases in property values and parking issues, suggesting that the subdivision could lead to increased street parking and reduced livability.
Kathleen Kachman, who co-owns a nearby property with Bumrungsiri, echoed his sentiments. She emphasized that subdividing the 0.2-acre lot into three smaller properties would create space constraints and exacerbate traffic issues on the street, which is often used by pedestrians and children. Kachman noted the absence of sidewalks in the area, raising safety concerns regarding increased vehicle traffic.
In response to the residents' concerns, the applicant, Mr. Butler, argued that if the property were to be rented without subdivision, it would still accommodate three separate homes, thus negating the need for a public hearing. He assured that the proposed development would include adequate parking for each unit.
City representative Mr. Reid addressed the opposition by clarifying that the municipal code allows for higher density on the property, indicating that without the conditional use permit, the owner could have developed up to four units on the site.
The hearing underscored the community's apprehensions about the proposed development and its potential effects on neighborhood dynamics, safety, and property values. The city will consider the feedback from residents as it deliberates on the conditional use permits.