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Commission approves first reading to rezone two lots near Fourth Street to medium‑density residential despite neighborhood concerns
Summary
The Manhattan City Commission approved on first reading a rezoning of two lots near Fourth Street from low‑density residential with an established neighborhood overlay to medium‑density residential (RM), after neighborhood speakers urged caution over spot zoning and parking impacts.
The Manhattan City Commission voted unanimously on Jan. 14 to approve the first reading of an ordinance rezoning two lots (including 330 Vatir Street) from Low Density Residential (RL) with an Established Neighborhood Overlay (OEN) to Medium Density Residential (RM) district.
Planning staff said the future land‑use map designates the block for commercial use but that RM zoning would be consistent with the surrounding pattern and allow a transition between commercial parcels on Fourth Street and the single‑family neighborhood to the west. Staff catalogued design differences between retaining the OEN and a straight RN/RM district — including roof‑pitch guidance, allowed siding materials, and a required percentage of front‑façade windows under the OEN — and noted that building coverage, height and setbacks remain similar between districts.
The applicants, Zach and Michelle Burton, told the commission they intend a five‑unit townhome project oriented toward Fourth Street with parking accessed from the alley; they said townhomes would provide a transition and that a 4‑bedroom single‑family house also permitted under current zoning could attract student housing. Zach Burton said the townhome project is intended as workforce housing and would face Fourth Street with alley parking to reduce curbside impacts.
Several neighbors spoke in opposition or seeking additional study. Mel Borrist (citizen) asked for more neighborhood stabilization analysis and for staff comparisons John Adams prepared; he suggested alternatives such as low‑density attached residential. Anne Cush, a neighboring property owner within the 200‑foot notice area, urged the commission to step back and consider spot‑zoning concerns and parking impacts on Fourth Street and the unpaved alley behind the site.
Commissioner comments noted the difficulty of balancing infill housing goals with neighborhood compatibility. The motion to approve the first reading carried 5–0 on roll call. The clerk recorded "yes" votes from Commissioner Mitten, Mayor Susan Adamczak, Commissioner McCullough, Commissioner Opelt and Commissioner Mota.
Staff said additional design review and standard review procedures apply if the applicant pursues a building proposal; the first reading does not condition the property on a specific plan and future proposals would be reviewed under applicable design standards.
