Planning commission unanimously recommends rezoning of two downtown lots from multifamily to single-family

The City of Venice Planning Commission voted 7–0 to recommend City Council approval of zoning map amendment petition 25‑05‑RZ, a request from the Boruff Family Trust to rezone two parcels at 225 Park Boulevard South and 528 Menendez Street from residential multifamily (RMF‑4) to residential single‑family (RSF‑4).

Staff presentation noted the parcels total about 0.6 acres and carry a future land‑use designation of high‑density residential. Under RMF‑4 the existing site currently contains 10 multifamily units; rezoning to RSF‑4 would allow up to three single‑family homes. Nicole Tremblay, senior planner, explained the comprehensive plan contains a provision (LU 1.2.0.3) allowing properties smaller than one acre to request a lower‑density implementing district without a comprehensive plan amendment; staff found sufficient information in the record and no TRC issues and recommended the commission forward a favorable recommendation to council.

Attorney Jeffrey Boone, representing the applicant, told commissioners the Boruff Family Trust (owner Gary Boruff was present) sought rezoning so the property could be divided for family parcels in the future and argued the change is consistent with existing development patterns on that block. Boone also argued practical market and height constraints limit the feasibility of redeveloping the site as rentable multifamily under current island height limits and construction economics.

One speaker from the public, Michelle Montero, spoke in favor of rezoning and said single‑family homes on the lots would be consistent with the neighborhood character near John Nolan Park and with recent nearby infill single‑family construction.

Commission discussion referenced competing goals: the comprehensive plan’s high‑density residential designation and the city’s broader interest in adding multifamily housing versus property owner rights and the island’s development realities. Several commissioners said they had considered the tradeoffs and determined the application met the applicable criteria. Commissioner Hale moved to recommend approval; the motion passed unanimously 7–0.

The commission’s recommendation will go to City Council for final action. The staff record and the commission’s discussion note the proposal reduces potential multifamily density (10 existing units on site versus an eventual maximum of three single‑family homes under RSF‑4), a relevant point for council as it weighs housing supply and neighborhood character.