Board approves variances for 306 E. Walnut to allow increased density, reduced lot and parking

On the same property at 306 East Walnut Street, the Kokomo City Zoning Appeals Board approved a separate set of variances to permit reduced minimum lot area and floor area per unit, an increased density of four additional units over the allowed maximum and reduced parking from the zoning standard.

The petitioner’s representative read the findings of fact asserting the building’s restoration will improve property values and structural safety. Staff recommended approval and said the variances would not create safety hazards, block traffic views or encroach on recorded easements. Staff also explained the variances would primarily affect the occupants who choose to live on the property.

Board members questioned the practical difficulty justification and whether the situation was self-imposed. The petitioner said the building previously had three units and is being reconfigured to five one-bedroom units, and that the remodel requires interior rework and a consolidated parking lot with seven spaces. A board member said the strict application of the zoning ordinance “will result in a practical difficulty” if the variances are denied because they would prevent the proposed 1-bedroom units that the market seeks in downtown.

The motion to approve case P09-B-25 adopting the petitioner’s and staff’s findings passed by voice vote; the board recorded the findings in the record.

Less-critical details: staff said the area includes downtown commercial, M1 multifamily and R5 urban residential districts, and that the comprehensive plan earmarks the area for higher-density residential use.