Staff opposes comprehensive plan amendment for two NW 20th Street lots; applicant seeks rezoning to build two single-family homes

Planning staff presented a pair of linked cases affecting two vacant lots at 402 and 406 Northwest 20th Street: comprehensive plan amendment CPA25-09-0021 and zoning change ZON25O8-2031. Staff said it is unable to support the comprehensive plan amendment because the proposed residential use does not align with the future land use map, which designates the parcels for commercial, retail or office uses. Staff noted, however, that the block is predominantly single-family residential on three sides and that the applicant proposes to build two single-family homes.

Staff explained the existing zoning is general retail and that the applicant seeks rezoning to Single-Family 6 to allow construction of two new single-family dwellings. No variances were requested. Notices were mailed to properties within 300 feet (staff reported 50 or 51 notices sent) and staff stated there were no returned notices indicating support or opposition.

Commissioners asked about a structure visible near the north end of the aerial — described during the briefing as a contractor shop that may be a tire business — which would face the backyard of the proposed homes. Staff confirmed the surrounding properties on three sides are residential and said the applicant would be required to follow normal development standards for the Single-Family 6 zone.

No final decision was made at the briefing. Staff recommended next steps and answered commissioners’ questions; the comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning will proceed to the public hearing stage where the commission and council will consider public comment and make final decisions.