Planning commission recommends approval of second carport at 1204 John Avenue

The Decatur Planning and Zoning Commission on Aug. 5 recommended that City Council approve a specific use permit for a second carport at 1204 John Avenue, a structure that exceeds the municipality's usual length and height limits for carports.

Planning Director Lisa Hannon entered the staff report "into the record in its entirety by reference" and said the requested carport triggers a specific use permit because the property would have more than one carport and the proposed structure is approximately 30 feet in length, exceeding the 24-foot length threshold in the code. Hannon said property owners within 200 feet were notified and staff received no responses; staff recommended approval of SUP 25-0003.

Vice Chairman Will Clossey opened the discussion to the commission. Commission members asked whether the larger carport was for an RV or similar; staff said the applicant "works on his own vehicles and stuff" and specifically told staff the carport was not for an RV. Wayne Smith, who said the plans already submitted include engineering, told the commission the structure must meet higher wind standards and that the plan-review process will address attachment and anchoring details.

Hannon and Smith said the project must meet building-code and plan-review requirements before a permit is issued. The commission noted an improved parking surface is required inside the carport and that anchoring and a concrete or asphalt slab are part of the building-permit package; Smith confirmed the submitted package includes engineering drawings.

After discussion the commission voted to recommend approval of the SUP to City Council. Commissioners voiced no opposition during the vote.

The commission's recommendation means final approval still rests with City Council; staff and building inspectors will verify required engineered plans, anchoring, and required improved parking surface during permit review.