In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed a significant rezoning request for properties located at 709 and 711 Pendleton Street, currently limited to office use. The properties, which have a history as a commercial building since the 1940s, are seeking to lift a proffer that restricts their use to offices only. The applicants aim to align the properties with the commercial low (CL) zoning designation, allowing for a broader range of commercial activities.

The planning commission has recommended approval of the request, citing that the current master plan designates the site for commercial use, a shift from its previous residential zoning. However, the proposal has sparked concerns among local residents regarding parking shortages, traffic safety, and waste management. Residents highlighted existing issues with litter and insufficient off-street parking, exacerbated by the presence of nearby businesses and houses of worship that also lack dedicated parking.

Public testimony revealed a divide between the applicants and community members. Supporters of the rezoning, including the property owners, argue that the introduction of a small café would enhance the neighborhood and attract more visitors, potentially alleviating some of the vacancy issues in the area. The café, proposed by a local entrepreneur, would operate with minimal on-site cooking, relying on deliveries from an established location, which proponents claim would mitigate traffic and waste concerns.

Opponents, however, voiced strong objections, emphasizing the need for the city to prioritize the well-being of existing residents over new business opportunities. They expressed fears that additional commercial activity would worsen parking difficulties and contribute to ongoing litter problems.

City council members acknowledged the residents' concerns, particularly regarding trash management and parking challenges, and emphasized the importance of ongoing community engagement as the proposal moves forward. Ultimately, the council voted in favor of the planning commission's recommendation to approve the rezoning request, while also urging staff to address the community's concerns about parking and waste management in future discussions.

The meeting also touched on a broader development plan for the Eisenhower Avenue area, which includes significant new construction and infrastructure improvements over the next two decades, aimed at enhancing the community and increasing tax revenue. This plan is expected to bring substantial changes to the area, including new streets, open spaces, and affordable housing units, further shaping the future of the city.