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Board approves use variance for 163 Ann Street NE with conditions
Summary
The Grand Rapids City Board of Zoning Appeals approved a use variance allowing a professional office and limited low-intensity commercial uses at 163 Ann Street NE, requiring the applicant to notify planning before any tenant or use change and signage to comply with TNTBA standards.
The Grand Rapids City Board of Zoning Appeals on an unspecified date approved a use variance for 163 Ann Street Northeast, allowing a professional office on the first floor and permitting similar low-intensity commercial uses—specifically medical office and retail—for flexibility under conditions.
Staff planner Rowan told the board the two-story building sits in the Creston neighborhood’s compact neighborhood designation and has storefront features consistent with past commercial use. Rowan said parking for a professional office would be met under the ordinance after applying mixed-use and a 50% parking reduction and recommended adding medical and retail to avoid repeated variance requests.
Applicant Rob Daverna said he walked the neighborhood, left letters at nearby homes and spoke with at least one adjacent neighbor who recalled historic commercial uses there. "I did walk around the neighborhood... I did drop letters off at all the houses," Daverna said, adding he received no follow-up objections.
Board Member 6 outlined the standard for a use variance—uniqueness of the parcel, hardship not self-created, no substantial detriment and consistency with the master plan—and moved to approve the application with conditions. The board recorded support for placing a requirement that the owner notify the planning office before any change in tenancy or use so any new tenant meets the zoning and parking requirements. The board also required signage to comply with the Traditional Neighborhood Traditional Business Area (TNTBA) sign regulations.
Board Member 5 noted the applicant’s outreach and the lack of neighborhood objections in the record when supporting the motion. The board voted to approve the variance.
The approval allows the building to operate as proposed under the conditions the board set; future tenant changes that would alter parking or use intensity must be routed through the planning office for review. The board closed the public hearing on the item before deliberation and vote.
