In a recent zoning board meeting, a variance request was approved to reduce the minimum lot area for a property currently housing three individual homes. The applicant, Alex Papa Vasiliu, sought to subdivide the lot, reducing the required minimum area from 2,500 square feet to 1,333, 1,450, and 1,921 square feet for each house. The proposal aims to allow the homes to be sold individually, moving them away from their current status as investment properties.

During the meeting, it was noted that 20 public notices were sent out regarding the variance, with no objections received from city departments or private utilities. The existing garage on the property, which would be bisected by the proposed replat, is set to be demolished prior to the subdivision, as confirmed by the applicant.

The board discussed the implications of the variance, emphasizing that the situation of having three residential structures on one lot predates current land development regulations. The motion for approval highlighted that enforcing the strict terms of these regulations would impose unnecessary hardship on the applicant.

Board member Housewoman Finkley remarked on the broader context of minimum lot sizes, suggesting that similar requests will likely continue to arise, particularly in urban areas where historical properties are being subdivided. She indicated that this topic would be revisited as the city updates its comprehensive plan, particularly in differentiating regulations across various parts of the island.

The variance was ultimately approved, reflecting a growing trend in the city to adapt zoning laws to better accommodate urban development and housing availability.