Commission denies conditional-use permit for four duplexes at 2705 Port St., citing incompatibility with neighborhood

The Nampa Planning and Zoning Commission voted to deny a conditional-use permit for four duplex buildings (eight dwelling units) proposed for a 0.72-acre parcel at 2705 Port Street, finding the project would be incompatible with the surrounding single-family neighborhood.

Applicant Jim Anderson said his company revised an earlier plan for single-family lots to duplexes to provide family-oriented rental housing; each duplex would contain two units with two-car garages. Planning staff (Damian) explained that duplex dwellings are allowed within RS-6 by conditional-use permit and that the subject property is designated medium-density residential. Staff found the criteria for a conditional-use permit generally met, describing the project as infill with utilities in place.

Two nearby residents, Benjamin Antonis and Regina Richardson, testified in opposition. Antonis said the duplexes would be “out of character” compared with the neighborhood’s existing larger lots and older single-family homes; Richardson cited increased vehicle trips, loss of a 1910 farmhouse and views into backyards from two-story units as concerns.

Commission discussion focused on criterion 10-25-4.8.2, which requires that the design, construction, operation and maintenance of a conditional use not adversely impact the intended character and appearance of the general vicinity. Multiple commissioners said the parcel sits “in the center” of a long-established single-family area and concluded the duplex plan was not compatible with the immediate vicinity. Commissioner Torres (mover) read the criterion; Commissioners Kirkman and Daffer seconded and supported the motion to deny. A roll-call-style confirmation recorded six votes in favor of denial and one opposing vote (Commissioner Kehoe). The motion carried and the conditional-use permit was denied; the applicant may appeal to city council.