The city council in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, unanimously approved a zoning change for a self-storage development despite some opposition during previous planning meetings. Self-storage developer JKLR LLC and property owner James M. Hoke plan to build a five-building facility.
Councilmember Monica Vernon voiced concern that an intensive commercial development could wind up on the property if plans for the self-storage facility fell through, but she ultimately backed the project in the 7-0 vote. The council delayed its decision in January due to questions about the project.
The storage proposal drew some controversy last month because the property at 33rd Avenue S.W. and J Street S.W. has some topographical challenges due to a steep grade, and the lot is next to single-family housing.
The planning commission approved the proposal on Jan. 2 in a 5-2 vote. During those proceedings, commission member Allan Thoms said he was against placing self-storage next to the houses and concerned about the number of trees that would be removed from the property.
The lot is on the corner of two arterial streets and had been zoned for single-family homes and offices.
