Planning commission recommends C0 rezoning for 601 South Walker; neighbors voiced bar and traffic concerns

The Alpine Planning and Zoning Commission on July 28 recommended approval of a rezoning request that would change the property at 601 South Walker from R‑4 (Mixed Residential/Mobile Home District) to C‑0 (Office/Services District). Applicant Melinda Vega told the commission she intends to use the property for a low‑intensity commercial use such as an art studio and said she does not intend to operate a bar.

The request follows an earlier attempt by a prior owner to secure commercial zoning that was denied by the City Council after the commission had recommended denial. City staff explained the legal framework commissioners must apply in considering a noncontiguous rezoning (commonly called spot zoning) and provided recommended findings to document the decision. The packet cited Alpine ordinance 2024‑08‑01 and referenced the four‑factor balancing test drawn from case law (transcript reference: “Bar…