News Summary
Residents in Kansas City’s Westside neighborhood are filing legal action against a proposed 6-unit housing development backed by soccer star Graham Zusi. Opponents allege that the city board’s approval of the project violated zoning codes. While city representatives assert the development complies with regulations, critics emphasize the need for fair enforcement of local laws, expressing concerns over its impact on neighborhood character and potential precedents for future developments. The case is currently pending in Jackson County Circuit Court.
Kansas City, MO – Westside residents are taking legal action against a proposed 6-unit housing project backed by soccer star Graham Zusi, claiming that the city board’s decision to approve the development was illegal. The project, located at 1639-41 Summit Street, received a special use permit from the city’s Board of Zoning Adjustment in February, but opposing residents argue that this decision violates city zoning codes.
The board endorsed the project as a multi-unit house, which is designed to resemble a large single-family home with one entrance, while functioning as a small apartment building. A special use permit is necessary for multi-unit homes in the area, according to the local zoning regulations.
Representatives from the Board of Zoning Adjustment stated that they found the project in compliance with several standards, including permitting variances that allowed the development to exceed typical limits for the property size. Additionally, an exception was granted to allow for a trash enclosure in front of the building.
City staff supported the project, highlighting that mixed housing types can benefit central neighborhoods like Westside, urging the city to fill vacant lots and promote diverse, walkable neighborhoods. However, the decision was met with opposition from neighbors who argue that the zoning board misapplied local laws, was unreasonable, and overlooked the potential impact on the neighborhood and possible alternatives.
Opponents of the project, including resident Virginia Salazar Bellis, emphasize the need for fairness and proper adherence to development regulations. They contend that the zoning board’s decision could set a concerning precedent for future zoning and development decisions across the city.
The community has had mixed reactions regarding the proposed development. Some residents support the project, believing it will complement the area and help address the need for affordable housing. However, others feel that the six-plex would be out of scale with the surrounding neighborhood, raising concerns over its impact on the character of the community.
Graham Zusi, who plays for the Sporting KC soccer team until the end of the 2023 season, is the owner of the property undergoing development. Although Zusi is the face behind the project, he is not named in the legal appeal filed against the zoning board.
The legal challenge is currently pending in Jackson County Circuit Court, with a management conference scheduled for July 28. Due to the ongoing legal proceedings, city officials are unable to provide comments regarding the situation, although city staff continues to evaluate the plans for the property.
This case has garnered attention not only for the proposed development but also for its potential implications for zoning and development across Kansas City. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community remains engaged in the discussion surrounding the balance between development and maintaining neighborhood integrity.
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Additional Resources
- Kansas City News
- Bisnow: Atlanta Development
- AJC: Fulton County Development
- CBS News: Natomas Development
- YieldPro: Beltline Development
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Google Search: Westside Development Kansas City
- Google Scholar: Zoning Laws Kansas City
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zoning
- Google News: Kansas City Housing Projects
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
