Zoning board approves two Park Avenue conversions, allowing ground‑floor dwelling expansion and a garage‑to‑home conversion

The Zoning Board unanimously approved two applications affecting 314 Park Avenue that would increase residential capacity on a parcel currently zoned Commerce.

On the first matter (ZBA2025‑10) the board approved an expansion of a nonconforming ground‑floor dwelling into approximately 175 square feet of adjacent office space, increasing a 900‑square‑foot unit to a three‑bedroom layout. Planner Evan Clements explained the three approval criteria for enlarging a nonconforming use — no reduction in neighboring property values, no nuisance or hazard to vehicles or pedestrians, and provision of adequate facilities — and the board found the criteria satisfied after applicant Chad Becker testified there would be no exterior changes and adequate parking and utilities exist.

On the second matter (ZBA2025‑11) the board approved a variance to convert an existing detached garage with loft into a single‑family dwelling. Staff noted single‑family detached homes are not normally permitted in the Commerce District, but the board concluded the parcel’s context — a small commerce pocket surrounded by low‑density residential zoning and existing multifamily nearby — and the city’s need for housing supported the requested relief. Public commenter Toby Towsley urged pursuing rezoning of the pocket rather than repeated variances; staff said neighborhood nodes and future master-plan work are under consideration but not imminent.

Both motions passed unanimously. The board and staff noted the decisions reflect current zoning irregularities and that longer-term adjustments may be addressed in future plan or code updates.