Commission approves duplex conversion at 305 Austin Street without adding an extra parking space
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Summary
The planning commission approved a major-variance request allowing conversion of a one-family dwelling to a two-family dwelling at 305 Austin Street without providing an additional off-street parking space, citing lot size, existing built environment, and cost considerations; staff recommended approval.
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Planning Commission unanimously approved a variance to allow the change of use from a one-family dwelling to a two-family dwelling at 305 Austin Street without adding one required off-street parking space (case recorded in the transcript as '20Five-sixty4', resolution 45 39 a).
Ms. Johnson, planning staff, said the structure is nonconforming and sits on a substandard lot in a medium-density zone; two-family dwellings are allowed but the code requires one parking space per dwelling. Staff noted the owner wishes to preserve a decades-old garden on the lot and provided a third-party cost estimate that compliance (creating a new parking space) would add more than 10% to the project cost. City staff commented that adding a curb cut to create a driveway could remove one on-street parking space.
Commissioners asked clarifying questions about how a garage is counted and whether adjacent public parking would be considered reserved for the property. Ms. Johnson clarified that the existing garage counts as a single off-street space and that on-street spaces are public and not reserved for the property. No public speakers commented on this item and the hearing was closed.
Commissioner Arnold moved to adopt resolution 45 39 a to approve the request; the motion was seconded and, after a roll call, the commission approved the variance (recorded in the transcript as passing with seven yes votes). The commission noted that building permits and any curb cuts remain subject to city review.
