Council approves 30‑unit Elm Avenue apartment project despite planning staff concerns

Portsmouth City Council voted 5-1 to rezone 1001 Elm Avenue and approve a 30‑unit apartment project proposed by Satisfied Home Builders, overruling the planning commission's recommendation of denial.

Council members approved the rezoning after the applicant offered a voluntary condition limiting the development to a maximum of 30 units; city staff repeatedly warned the proffer limits density but does not guarantee the final design, materials or appearance of the finished building.

Mark Parker, a representative of Satisfied Home Builders, told council the site has been vacant for more than 20 years and that the company plans a mix of mostly one‑bedroom units aimed at young professionals. “We chose this site, because it's been, you know, revitalized for at least, like, like, last 20 plus years, been vacant,” Parker said during the public hearing. He…