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Commission approves 1,000‑square‑foot outbuilding at 1610 Franklin Avenue despite neighbor opposition
Summary
The commission approved a 1,000‑square‑foot detached outbuilding for a large lot at 1610 Franklin Avenue and allowed retention of an existing 143‑square‑foot shed; neighbors testified in opposition citing privacy, density and noise concerns.
The Historic Zoning Commission approved a proposed 1,000‑square‑foot detached outbuilding at 1610 Franklin Avenue and allowed the existing 143‑square‑foot shed to remain. The lot is unusually large (staff noted approximately 13,656 square feet), which allows by‑right outbuildings up to 1,000 square feet under the overlay’s rules; staff found the project meets base‑zoning setbacks and the design guidelines for outbuildings in this case.
Owner Eric Jolley described his history restoring historic homes and said the outbuilding would be designed to integrate with the neighborhood and not to create noise or short‑term rentals. Jolley said his intent is preservation and respectful development, and that the proposed outbuilding would “maximize property value” while respecting neighbors.
Neighbors, represented in public comment by Kristen Desper of 714 Benson Street, opposed the project. Desper said Benson Street residents were not aware of the plans, raised concern that the outbuilding is not a garage‑inclusive DADU and said the structure could be used as an Airbnb or rental. She said the deep lots were a reason neighbors had chosen the area and that the proposed building would remove privacy, add traffic and disrupt the block’s character. Desper also said construction would be disruptive to her child, who is undergoing medical treatment.
Commission discussion noted that the commission’s review focuses on exterior design compatibility rather than use; staff and commissioners pointed out that the outbuilding footprint is allowable on a lot of this size and that the project meets the design guidelines as presented. Commissioner Mosley moved to approve the project with staff conditions; Commissioner Jones seconded and the motion passed.
Conditions recorded by staff are the standard conditions for outbuildings and materials. The decision allows the owner to proceed to permitting as long as the permitted designs and conditions are met.
