Planning Commission approves rezoning of Cornelius Gardens block to R-1

The Newton Planning Commission voted July 7 to recommend rezoning the Cornelius Gardens block from a professional office district to single-family dwelling (R-1) zoning.

The motion, made during the planning commission meeting after staff reviewed standard rezoning criteria, carried on a voice vote. Planning staff told commissioners that R-1 zoning surrounds the subject block and that R-2 zoning borders the north side of the site. Staff also reported that public utilities are existing and adjacent to the site.

Applicant David Querren told the commission the request covers multiple owners on the block and that an omission in the original application left out one parcel at 126 South Pine. "We have since then made application to have that included," Querren said, adding that the goal is to rezone the entire block to R-1 so "folks can have confidence that it's gonna be single family dwellings." No members of the public appeared to speak during the public hearing.

During the meeting, city planning staff outlined the seven factors the commission considers for zoning amendments, including consistency with the comprehensive plan, compatibility with nearby uses, adequacy of public services, and whether changed conditions justify the reclassification. Staff noted no apparent error in earlier application of the regulations and said it was not aware of changing conditions in the area that would weigh against the request.

After commissioners discussed the factors, a commissioner moved to approve the reclassification to R-1 and a second was recorded. The commission called for a voice vote; the chair announced "motion carries." The commission did not record a roll-call tally in the meeting minutes.

The commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the governing body of the city for final action under the city's rezoning process.