Planning commission backs rezoning and conversion of 732 N. Washington to 20 residential units
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Summary
The commission recommended council approval of a master plan amendment, rezoning and special use permits to convert an existing office building at 732 N. Washington Street to 20 residential units, with conditions including a voluntary $41,395 housing trust fund contribution.
The Planning Commission on Jan. 6 recommended council approval for a package of approvals to convert the building at 732 North Washington Street to 20 residential units.
Sam Shelby of planning and zoning said the request includes a master plan amendment to change recommended height district limits, rezoning from CDX to CRM‑UX, special use permits for multi‑unit residential use and parking reduction, and an encroachment to allow balconies above the sidewalk. Staff found the conversion advances Old Town North Small Area Plan goals, would not have substantial neighborhood impacts, and would bring the existing non‑conforming building into compliance. The applicant offered a voluntary contribution of $41,395 to the housing trust fund as part of the conversion policy.
Public testimony included residents concerned about the cumulative loss of ground‑floor commercial uses in Old Town North and the implications for walkability; one speaker said that converting offices without ground‑floor retail could make the street feel dead during the day. The applicant noted the building had been largely vacant for two and a half years and argued conversion was appropriate to reactivate the property.
After deliberation and motions, the commission recommended approval of the master plan amendment, rezoning and special use permit and encroachment; each motion carried 7–0. Commissioners and staff reiterated that BAR review would be required for exterior changes in the historic district and that conditions would govern the encroachments and other details.
