Board denies conversion at 323 South Webster amid condemnation and unpermitted work concerns
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Summary
Owner Michael Blitt sought a special exception to convert a condemned house at 323 South Webster Avenue into two units. The board denied the request 5–0 after neighbors and staff raised structural and unpermitted‑work concerns and staff said the house remains condemned and will require a full third‑party inspection before approvals.
The Zoning Hearing Board denied a request to convert a condemned property at 323 South Webster Avenue into a two‑family dwelling, citing unresolved code and safety issues.
Owner Michael Blitt told the board he purchased the house in September 2024 while it was condemned, said the interior is configured as a two‑unit dwelling with two kitchens and separate meters, and described rehabilitation efforts. Longtime neighbor Ed McIntyre and other residents countered that the building had serious structural problems, reported missing insulation, knob‑and‑tubing wiring and lead pipe, and noted unpermitted plumbing and electrical work that led to stop‑work orders. City staff confirmed the house failed recent inspections and remains condemned; staff said any release from condemnation will require a top‑to‑bottom third‑party 'black book' inspection and licensed contractors.
The board treated the request as a special exception requiring compliance with R9 standards (including paved off‑street parking and minimum room sizes). Board members expressed concern about the safety and inspection status and denied the conversion 5–0. Staff advised the owner to complete necessary repairs with permits and licensed contractors and to seek reinspection before returning with a compliant application.