Planning commission approves lot split, recommends rezoning for duplex site on Grant Avenue

The Grove City Planning Commission approved a lot split for a parcel at 3472 Grant Avenue and voted to recommend rezoning part of the property from R-2 (single-family) to D-1 (duplex/twin/double) at its meeting.

The lot-split approved reestablishes the original platted dimensions for Lot 33 of the Grama Buell addition, staff said, and the commission voted to approve the split during the meeting. The subsequent rezoning request would permit doubles, twin-singles and duplex development on a 0.165-acre tract that does not meet current D-1 lot-size standards but does match the original plat dimensions.

City planner (staff) told commissioners that the 0.165-acre split would reestablish the historic lot lines and noted multiple nearby lots in the historic Beulah subdivision already have similar zoning or lot sizes. The planner said staff was supportive of both the lot split and the rezoning request and recommended the commission forward the rezoning as a recommendation to City Council.

Applicant Chris Ullich, who identified his address as 5997 Toney Brook Court, told the commission he pursued the split to allow construction of a duplex and said, "Grove City is just dying for places," and that he had gone through the survey process and owned the adjoining lot and could adjust property lines if needed.

A nearby resident, Wayne Morris of 3484 Grant Avenue, opposed the rezoning in public comment. Morris said the house the applicant purchased has been operated as a short-term rental and that transient renters and party activity have been problems, saying he was concerned additional units would increase that traffic and disruption. Morris also said he found no Grove City ordinance regulating short-term rentals.

Commissioners recorded votes on both actions. The lot split motion recorded affirmative votes from Commissioners Farnsworth, Titus and Wendlinger. On the rezoning recommendation to City Council, the roll-call items recorded Commissioner Titus voting No, Commissioner Wendlinger voting Yes and Commissioner Farnsworth voting No; after the vote the commission indicated the rezoning application will proceed to City Council for final action and the parties will be notified of meeting dates.

The rezoning application will be considered by City Council; the commission’s action is a recommendation only. Staff emphasized the application addresses Grove City 2050 future land-use guidance and the applicant’s request addresses an original platted configuration rather than current minimum lot dimensions.