Owner granted approval to convert 1932 Forster St. to two‑unit dwelling with parking condition

The Harrisburg Planning Commission voted Aug. 6 to approve a special exception and variances that will allow the owner of 1932 Forster Street to formalize a conversion of a single‑family house into a two‑unit multifamily dwelling.

Planning staff explained the request required special exception approval for the proposed use and relief from off‑street parking sections 7‑305.7 and 7‑327.6 of the zoning code, and variances from density rules (sections 7‑307.3 and 7‑309.2(v)). Staff recommended approval with conditions: a comprehensive codes inspection by the codes bureau, approval of necessary permits prior to certificate of occupancy, and submission of a professional site plan showing rear‑yard parking if the applicant intends to provide it.

Owner Jennifer Martinos told the commission she had cleared the rear yard, removed debris from a fallen neighbor’s tree, and created two off‑street spaces in the backyard; she said the upstairs already passed a recent inspection. Commissioners asked about a 2017 addition and whether permits had been pulled; staff said records indicated work was inspected and brought into compliance.

Commissioners also noted a discrepancy between Dauphin County property classification (county tax records) and city records; staff said county tax classes reflect older assessments and the bureau is working to coordinate clarifications with the county.

A motion to approve the application with the two staff conditions was moved and seconded and carried by voice vote. The owner must provide any documentation of the codes inspection and submit the required site plan to staff before final approvals and occupancy.