Council grants variance for secondary parking approach to aid residents with disabilities

The committee approved a variance to allow a secondary parking approach on Bridal Drive to provide private access to a downstairs apartment for two residents with disabilities.

Jessica Smith, a project manager for the construction company building the home, asked the council to permit a single secondary parking spot and approach so the downstairs unit occupants can have safer and more direct access to their residence. "I'm here to advocate for an exception, to add a secondary approach to a parking spot on Bridal Drive," she said.

Mike Duncan, the homeowner, explained the request in the context of a "shared living" arrangement meant to improve care and reduce administrative burdens for his relatives. He described mobility and terrain challenges on the lot and said a level parking approach would significantly improve safety for the residents and caregivers. He referenced the Americans with Disabilities Act in support of reasonable accommodation arguments during his remarks.

Doyle Estes, speaking on behalf of the applicants, urged the committee to show "some compassion" and argued that staff's denial (cited in the packet as due to insufficient justification related to topography and safety) was an inconsistent reading of the lot conditions.

Council member John moved to approve the variance, noting the proposed driveway aligns with an existing neighboring driveway and the street has low traffic; the motion passed by voice vote. The transcript does not record a roll-call tally. The approval directs staff to record the variance in accordance with city procedures.