Commission debates garage requirement as applicant seeks SUP for residential infill

An applicant seeking a specific-use permit (Z2026-002) to allow residential infill in an established neighborhood told the commission he would like to replace an existing mobile home with a new house but has budget constraints that limit him to a one-car garage.

Alex Flores said he bought the property recently and prefers to build a new house rather than invest in the existing mobile home. "So I just want permission to build me a new house," he said. Flores told the commission he hoped to avoid bank financing and that his budget is "pretty tight," limiting his capacity to include a two-car garage.

Staff reminded the commission the UDC requires a two-space garage for the lot and said the plans submitted do not show a two-car garage; staff noted an SUP could include variances for parking configuration and that the lot width (about 60 by 120 feet) is sufficient to accommodate a two-car garage based on recent approvals in the neighborhood. Commissioners pressed Flores on whether the lot can support a two-car garage; staff said it can and that many recently approved new homes in Lake Rockwell Estates include two-car garages.

No final vote was taken; commissioners expressed openness to the SUP process but flagged the parking requirement as a material point for future consideration. The item will return to the commission with revised plans addressing the garage/parking question.

What happens next: Applicant will revise plans or pursue a variance through the SUP process; staff will provide guidance and return the case to Planning & Zoning for a future decision.