Board of Adjustment

MEMORANDUM DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TO: Board of Adjustment FROM: Carlos Espinosa DATE: March 29, 2024 SUBJECT: BOA Application Considerations for 4/3/24 Meeting Applicant: Mitchell Walch – 950 West Second Considerations related to Board of Adjustment Variance Criteria are provided below: 1) Are the variances in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance? The variances will facilitate construction of needed housing at a unique location at the end of a street (North Baker) and adjacent to light industrial zoning. Although the units are adjacent to light industrial zoning, there are buffing and use restrictions in the I-1 zoning district designed for compatibility with nearby residential uses. Namely, all activity related to a light industrial use must occur within a building. As such, the variances promote investment in the property and facilitate a use which benefits the public welfare. 2) Are the variances consistent with the Comprehensive Plan? The Comprehensive Plan designates this general area for traditional neighborhood residential development adjacent to the I-1 Light Industrial District. The proposed development is thus in-line with guidance from the Comprehensive Plan. 3) Does the proposal put property to use in a reasonable manner? The proposed dwellings are a reasonable use at this location given zoning and Comprehensive Plan guidance. Location of the parking in front of the buildings is reasonable given the location of the lot at the end of a street and  because the rear of the lot is prone to seasonal flooding. The variance to the frontage requirement is reasonable given the lot is rather large (24,800 Sq. Ft.). This is more than enough lot area required by code for two duplexes (16,000 Sq. Ft.). 4) Are there unique circumstances to the property not created by the landowner? The rear of the subject property is prone to seasonal flooding. Also, the property is uniquely situated at the end of a street and bordered by industrial zoning on one side. 5) Will the variances, if granted, retain the essential character of the locality? Given the lot’s location at the end of a street, the variances will not impact the character of the area. As such, the essential character will be retained. 6) Are there other considerations for the variances request besides economics? If the findings of questions 3-5 are affirmative this criterion is satisfied.  Page 2