Roadhouse upgrades intended for temporary chef housing; council advises applying for conditional-use permit

Deborah Oatman told the council members that residents and others had asked why Silvies was doing upgrades at the Roadhouse, and she asked Robb to explain. Robb said the work was intended to provide temporary housing for chefs working at the establishment; he said the kitchen would remain and the space was not intended for public lodging.

Members of the public and council raised code questions. "How can you do that by code to live in a commercial structure?" asked Jim Klum. Councilor Lisa Wenick sought clarification: "Then what I hear you say Robb is that you put in a kitchen to house the cook, the ranchers, or the public?" Robb replied no, not public. Councilor Josh Walker read municipal code 10-4B-2 and noted that residential use of commercial structures typically requires a conditional use permit; Councilor Matt Wenick advised Robb to apply for a conditional use permit and suggested the owners submit a written plan to the city before occupying the space.

No conditional use permit was approved May 9; councilors urged the applicant to pursue the proper permit and to notify the city in writing before placing occupants in the building.