WRA resolution on lot splits
Jeff Frontz
TL;DR: Recent zoning and variance discussions have highlighted that the WRA does not currently have a formal, adopted position on RRR zoning and lot splits. The attached resolution is proposed to clearly restate that long-standing principle. Please review and share feedback so we can move toward a vote before the January 8 CAC meeting.
Hi, everyone…
Walhalla Ravine is special because of its large, wooded lots—a character preserved through zoning measures secured roughly fifty years ago by the founding members of the Walhalla Ravine Association.
Recent city changes—including new Accessory Dwelling Unit legislation and the expected loss of our current zoning protection through Zone-In—have highlighted the importance of clearly restating the association’s commitment to preserving what makes the ravine unique.
Several of us have drafted the attached resolution to reaffirm a simple principle: maintaining lot integrity in the ravine and avoiding parcel fragmentation that would erode green space and neighborhood character. While current variance requests helped prompt this discussion, the resolution is intended to address the broader, long-term picture.
This need for clarity became especially apparent during recent interactions with the city. At the recent Zoning & Variance Committee meeting, a committee member explicitly asked about the WRA’s position —and none existed at that time. In recent discussions with Councilmembers Dorans and Beatty, and follow-up exchanges with Councilmember Dorans regarding ADUs, RRR zoning, and protection of the ravine, it was clear that we need to be precise about when the Association does and does not have an adopted position.
Reflecting on those conversations, I believe the WRA should formally reaffirm its longstanding support for Restricted Rural Residential (RRR) zoning and opposition to lot fragmentation. This resolution is intended to establish a clear, standing policy so that any of us can speak accurately and consistently with city officials, CAC members, and other stakeholders—especially as broader zoning changes are considered under Zone-In Phase 3.
Please take a look at the attached resolution and share your thoughts with me or the mailing list. My goal is to refine this over the next few days so we can hold a vote (details to follow) and, ideally, adopt a clear statement of position before the next CAC meeting on Thursday, January 8.
— Jeff
(alternate link to PDF in case attachment does not come through: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KKCkK8mHMIRQNvE-xnUUGQzwTzmsW13j/view?usp=share_link )
Molly Brinkman
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