BZA grants advanced party status to three neighbors in 1253 Moore St. NE conversion case; hearing scheduled for next session

The Board of Zoning Adjustment on Oct. 22 granted advanced party status to three neighbors in application 21361, a self‑certified request to convert and add to a semi‑detached dwelling at 1253 Moore Street NE.

What happened: Chairman Fred Hill moved to grant party status in opposition to Natalie Martinez, Andrew Carey and Don Boutel. Vice Chair Carl Blake seconded the motion. Staff recorded the vote as 3–0–2 to grant party status. The board explained the party‑status applicants demonstrated a particularized interest by virtue of their proximity to the subject property (one neighbor is two doors away, another three doors away) and their asserted impacts would be greater than those of the general public.

ANC postponement request: The ANC submitted a request to postpone the hearing, suggesting additional time to review the project; the board declined a long postponement and directed that the hearing proceed next session so the ANC could attend and present its concerns. Board members said it would be preferable for the ANC to convene and provide a full report to the board but that the next session would permit that engagement.

How the hearing will proceed: The board explained procedural steps to the newly admitted parties: the applicant presents, party‑status parties present their case, the Office of Planning presents its report, cross‑examination and questions follow, and then closing statements. The board reminded the parties that exhibits may be submitted through the Office of Zoning portal or BZASubmissions@dc.gov and urged neighbors to file photographic or other evidence promptly so the applicant has time to review it.

Next steps: The hearing was set for the board’s next public session and the newly admitted parties were advised to submit any exhibits to the record in advance.