Commission recommends approval for six‑unit Shavasana/‘Kare Sol’ townhome subdivision with modifications

The Planning and Zoning Commission on Sept. 17 recommended approval of a preliminary and final plat for a six‑unit planned unit development at 213–215 E. 30th Street (file SUBFY2025‑0003), known in application materials as Shavasana Urban Living and later identified in discussion as "Kare Sol." The project would create six townhomes and a common lot on a centrally located infill parcel in a C‑2 zoning district.

Applicant Ian McLaughlin of Pivot North Architecture presented the plan and said the project provides two garage stalls per unit, three guest stalls, about 2,398 square feet of common open space (approximately 16% of the site), a pedestrian connection to Carr Street and rooftop decks. The design review consultants had recommended additional perimeter landscaping and public‑facing open‑space features; staff’s review noted three primary code adjustments: the number of units served from a common drive (6 units vs. a typical 4‑unit limit), zero‑lot line setbacks that differ from the C‑2 standard, and perimeter landscaping width that falls short of a 10‑foot buffer in places.

After the staff presentation, the commission focused discussion on three practical points: stormwater/drainage, a proposed public access easement through the subdivision’s open space, and trash pickup logistics. Applicant representatives said Republic Services would accept curbside pick‑up on Carr Street if the city allows it; staff indicated the developer can return with a finalized letter from Republic at final plat. The applicant proposed that, in lieu of a public access dedication across Lot 7, the development would provide a permanent art feature — such as a mural or living wall — and clarified the communal open‑space layout intended to serve residents and future connectivity to a potential phase‑2 parcel.

Planning staff had earlier suggested a public access easement across Lot 7 to secure a pedestrian connection and strengthen PUD findings; the applicant and multiple commissioners objected to dedicating private open space as permanent public right of way. The applicant also argued that requiring a public‑access easement on a six‑unit infill site could create HOA liability and maintenance burdens without a clear nexus to impacts.

Commissioners ultimately supported the applicant’s alternate approach: staff’s recommended perimeter landscaping and a visible public art/green‑wall treatment in place of a permanent public easement, and the commission asked for a finalized trash‑service plan from Republic Services at final plat. Commissioner Brown moved to recommend approval with those adjustments and the motion passed unanimously.

What’s next: The developer will finalize an art/landscape plan, submit a Republic Services confirmation regarding trash pickup, and return for final plat processing; city council will receive the commission’s recommendation.