Commission grants indefinite continuance for accessory unit request after concerns about occupancy

The Arlington Planning and Zoning Commission on Nov. 12 voted to continue SUP25-6 indefinitely after commissioners expressed concerns about owner occupancy and the risk of tenant displacement.

Alex Van Amberg, planner, presented the request for a 674-square-foot secondary living unit at 1917 W Sanford Street and noted the unit meets UDC setbacks and would be used by family. The applicant, Bridal Palisier, said the unit is intended for her adult son, who has mental-health needs, and described the unit as designed to promote independence and stability. "This project is designed to support a young person managing mental health issues," Palisier told the commission.

Commissioners uniformly praised the applicant’s intent but raised issues about timing and occupancy: several commissioners said they are more comfortable recommending approval if the owner were living in the primary residence or could document an imminent move back to the property. The applicant replied that the existing tenants have a lease through February and that she planned to move back and not renew that lease; commissioners asked for documentation and suggested the applicant seek a homestead exemption and return with proof of occupancy.

Chair Dr. Ignacio Nunez offered an indefinite continuance so the applicant could address tenant and residency concerns without losing the right to reapply without paying a new application fee. The motion to continue passed 8–1.