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Commission issues negative recommendation to zoning board for proposed rooming/boarding house at 1040 Cranston St.
Summary
The planning commission unanimously recommended denial to the zoning board of a use‑variance request to operate a rooming/boarding house at 1040 Cranston Street, citing precedent concerns and the high legal threshold for use variances.
The Cranston City Planning Commission unanimously forwarded a negative recommendation to the Zoning Board of Review on a use‑variance application to permit a rooming/boarding house at 1040 Cranston Street.
Planner presentation noted the subject C‑5 highway‑commercial corridor is largely residential in character on this east‑side strip; staff nonetheless recommended a positive recommendation because the proposed temporary housing use could serve underserved populations and the site is proximate to transit and services. Attorney Rafael Lamanzo, representing the applicant Dr. Joyce Martin, said the plan would provide short‑term lodging with an on‑site operator and limited bedroom count concentrated on the second floor.
Commissioners expressed concerns about precedent and the high legal standard for a use variance, with President Frias saying he generally does not favor use variances and recommending applicants pursue a zone change before seeking a variance. Commissioner Guerrero noted the city has community residences and group homes under different regulatory frameworks and said a rooming/boarding house is an unfamiliar use for Cranston and could set a precedent. Councilman Andy Andujar, representing Ward 3, also told the commission that neighbors opposed state licensing for the facility.
On a motion to forward a negative recommendation, the commission voted unanimously. The zoning board will consider the applicant’s case and the commission’s recommendation at its upcoming hearing.
