Derby council rezones 1219 S. Rock to B‑3 to allow five‑story senior housing

Derby City Council on April 22 adopted an ordinance changing the zoning classification of 1219 South Rock from R‑1 (single‑family residential) to B‑3 (general business), a step the applicant said is necessary to permit a five‑story senior living development.

Scott Kanable, city planner, told the council the request followed planning commission review and that the site will require platting and a subsequent site plan review before any building permits are issued. “The applicant is requesting the B‑3 zoning to permit the height of that building,” Kanable said, noting that R‑1 and multifamily districts in Derby typically limit buildings to three stories or 45 feet; the proposed development would reach five stories and 65 feet, which requires B‑3 zoning.

A portion of the property will be used for shared parking, pickleball courts, a gazebo and sidewalk/trail connections for senior center patrons, Kanable said. The planning commission recommended approval subject to findings contained in its minutes; the applicant’s preliminary plat was already approved by the planning commission. Council President Nick Engel moved adoption of the ordinance; the motion passed 6‑0.

Final development of the site will require the applicant to record the required plat and to complete site plan review, which will address building design, landscaping and required screening. Council members and staff noted that commercial uses permitted in B‑3 could be proposed later and that development approvals beyond the zoning ordinance will follow the city’s established review process.