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Zoning board approves renovation converting 7–9 Dearborn from four to three units
Summary
The Newport Zoning Board unanimously approved a category‑6 special use permit for Taj Residences LLC to convert 7–9 Dearborn Street from a four‑family to a three‑family, adding a second‑level front porch and modifying rear egress, with conditions including completion within 12 months and payment of outstanding noticing costs.
The Newport Zoning Board voted unanimously Nov. 18 to grant Taj Residences LLC a category‑6 special use permit to renovate 7–9 Dearborn Street and convert the existing four‑family structure into a three‑family residence. The board attached standard conditions including that work begin and be substantially complete within 12 months (or after an approved extension) and that any outstanding public‑notice invoices be paid before recording the decision.
Attorney J. Russell Jackson, representing the applicant, told the board the project will “reduce the number of dwelling units by 1” so that “each floor will essentially… be 1 dwelling unit per floor,” while removing a large rear shed and reconstructing rear egress and deck systems. He said the project reduces lot coverage from the existing 42.3% to about 39.38% and that the application no longer requires a dimensional variance for front setback after staff and counsel applied a different setback rule under the Zoning Enabling Act.
Board members asked staff to confirm the legality of a third‑floor deck and other nonconforming elements. Zoning staff reported a historical denial in the record from the 1980s but said the deck as it stands meets current setbacks and does not expand existing nonconformities. Several board members said the renovation improves a blighted property and is consistent with the streetscape; Vice Chair Dave Riley made the motion to adopt findings and grant the petition, which passed unanimously.
The decision will be recorded only after the applicant demonstrates compliance with the conditions spelled out in the board’s motion, including payment of any outstanding noticing fees and meeting the 12‑month timeline for substantial completion.
