Subdivision Nixed After Neighbors Object Traffic, Safety Concerns Cited At Commissioners’ Hearing

Spokane County commissioners on Tuesday killed a developer’s proposal to build 46 moderately priced homes in Opportunity.

Ken Tupper wanted to build a subdivision on eight acres north of 12th Avenue between University and Pierce roads and call it Parc Center, but he needed a zoning change that would double the allowable density.

Commissioners said no, citing traffic and safety objections they heard from 15 residents who opposed the plan last month during a public hearing before the commission.

“This is not compatible with single-family housing and would substantially affect traffic on 12th, jeopardizing students,” Commissioner Steve Hasson said, referring to Opportunity Elementary School.

Commissioner John Roskelley applauded Tupper’s concept but said it would overwhelm an already busy street.

Telephone calls to Tupper were not returned.

His plan was to build homes in the $79,000 to $99,000 range, but Tupper said scaling back the development would boost his home prices to $140,000.

Among the neighbors who testified against Parc Center last month was 12-year-old Jordan Whitney.

“I’m so proud of her and that the kids were even involved,” said her father, Marc Whitney.

Of the commission’s decision, he said, “Hey, I’m thrilled. We worked hard to overturn that. I deal with the traffic every day. There’s no place for kids to play.”

Tupper said his plan would have brought sewers into the area and that neighbors could have tied in.

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