The Kearney Planning Commission convened on July 18, 2025, to discuss a significant rezoning proposal that could impact local housing availability. The meeting began with a roll call confirming a quorum, followed by a brief introduction to the agenda, which included a public hearing on the rezoning request submitted by Stuart Hoffman of Hoffman Builds.

Hoffman is seeking to rezone a property located at 5715 Avenue R from an R-1 urban residential single-family district to an R-1D residential district, which would allow for duplex construction. During his presentation, Hoffman emphasized the pressing need for more affordable housing in Kearney, citing high prices driven by supply and demand. He argued that introducing duplexes could help alleviate this issue by reducing building costs and increasing the housing supply.

The proposed site is a corner lot, which Hoffman noted would facilitate traffic management and parking for future residents. He reassured the commission that the duplexes would be designed to fit seamlessly into the existing neighborhood, adhering to local covenants and maintaining aesthetic standards.

Hoffman also addressed concerns from the community regarding potential increases in homeowners association (HOA) fees, stating that the development would be mindful of existing neighborhood dynamics. He pointed out that several multi-family homes and R-2 and R-3 zoned properties are already present in the vicinity, suggesting that the proposed duplexes would not be out of character for the area.

The commission members engaged with Hoffman, asking questions to clarify details about the project and its implications for the neighborhood. The discussion highlighted the community's interest in balancing development with maintaining the character of existing residential areas.

As the meeting progressed, the commission will continue to evaluate the rezoning request, weighing the potential benefits of increased housing options against community concerns. The outcome of this proposal could play a crucial role in shaping Kearney's housing landscape in the coming years, addressing the ongoing demand for affordable living spaces.