Bryan Planning Commission denies two condo use-variance requests in Connan Addition

The Bryan Planning Commission on Sept. 15 unanimously denied two use-variance requests that would have allowed two-unit condominium buildings at 254 and 232 Connan Street in the Connan Addition, voting 6-0 to reject both applications.

Commissioners and residents said the requests conflict with recorded deed restrictions and the neighborhood's single-family character. Andrew (staff member) told commissioners he had received a petition opposing the proposals and that the petition contained 52 signatures. He also said the subdivision has recorded restrictions that can be modified only once every 10 years and that the next opportunity to modify those restrictions would not occur until February 2028.

Applicant and proposal details

The applications, submitted through Apartment Home Services LLC on behalf of developer/owner Mr. Hartman, called for two-unit condominium structures on two currently vacant lots. Andrew (staff member) presented plans and described each dwelling unit as roughly 1,250 square feet with an attached garage of about 350 square feet. The applicant did not offer additional testimony at the hearing when given the opportunity.

Public comment and neighborhood objections

Homeowner Deb Stuller, who said she has lived in the Connan Addition for 26 years, urged commissioners to deny rezoning and variance requests and to preserve the single-family character. "When we chose to build or purchase our homes in this subdivision, we did so based on the con and deed restrictions for single family homes only and the safety, quietness, and character provided by R-1 zoning," Stuller said. "Changing this to R-2 would negatively impact both current residents and long term quality of our subdivision. Two-family housing brings additional cars, congestion and on-street parking. We're not interested in increased traffic and additional vehicles increase safety risks for children and pedestrians." She presented a petition signed by neighbors asking the commission to keep the Connan Addition zoned R-1.

Ray Connan, who said he developed the subdivision and authored its restrictions, told the commission he intends to enforce those recorded restrictions. "It's my intention as long as I'm alive to enforce those restrictions. So if you approve this variance, I'll take the next step," Connan said.

Procedural and notice issues

Andrew (staff member) said the city code requires mailed notice to property owners within a 250-foot radius and that the city also publishes legal notices in the local paper. Several residents said many neighbors did not receive mailed notice and urged the city to review its notification rules for issues that affect multiple streets.

Commission action and votes

A commissioner moved to deny the variances; another commissioner seconded. On roll call the commission voted unanimously to deny the use variance for 254 Connan Street (yes: Mayor; yes: ****; yes: Jack; yes: Tyson; yes: Bob; yes: Bridal; motion carried, 6-0). The commission then voted unanimously to deny the use variance for 232 Connan Street (yes: ****; yes: Jack; yes: Mayor; yes: Tyson; yes: Bob; yes: Brian; motion carried, 6-0).

Next steps

Andrew (staff member) told the commission he had received a new application and expected the next meeting on Oct. 6 to include a use-variance request for the Old American Legion site at the corner of East Bryan and South Emmett. The commission adjourned after approving routine minutes and completing the agenda.