Planning commission recommends rezoning of Edwards/Greenfield parking lot for 32-unit multifamily project

The Southfield Planning Commission voted Nov. 19 to forward a favorable recommendation to city council for a conditional rezoning (PCZR25‑0003) that would convert a portion of a commercial parking lot on Edwards, just west of Greenfield, to low‑rise multifamily, allowing up to 32 apartments in two two‑story buildings.

Planning staff introduced the request and described the proposed conditions: development consistent with an attached conceptual site plan, a maximum of 32 total multifamily units in two stories, and execution and recording of a conditional‑rezoning agreement within six months of enactment. The staff memo said reconstruction of the parking area will require modern stormwater controls and a full site‑plan approval before building permits are issued.

The applicant’s representative, Tom Kalas, described the concept as a “transitional zoning” that will replace an existing large area of underused asphalt with 32 units, on‑site management and engineered stormwater controls. "We feel this is a nice development for the area," Kalas said.

Neighbors at the public hearing opposed the rezoning on several grounds. Milton Desoden said the mailed public notice was difficult to read and asked for clearer boundary depictions. "Don't think that everybody has computers," he told the commission. Samantha Vandenberg said the block is a quiet, primarily owner‑occupied single‑family neighborhood and warned of added traffic and sightline intrusion into backyards. Anne Morricone echoed the concerns and urged attention to existing longtime businesses that serve the neighborhood.

Commissioners pressed for concrete parking and buffering numbers; staff said the multifamily parcel would require 51 spaces and the applicant proposes 66 on the multifamily site, and that coordinated shared parking across the four parcels yields a net deficiency of four spaces overall. Engineer Mitesh Gandhi said the applicant will provide a detailed existing‑and‑proposed parking layout prior to the next meeting.

After discussion on density, screening, and improving notice legibility, Commissioner Bernudi moved for a favorable recommendation, supported by Commissioner Willis. The motion passed; the record notes the matter will next go to city council for final action and that full site‑plan review, including traffic and stormwater, will follow before any building is permitted.

The planning commission’s recommendation lists specific conditions (site plan consistency, two‑story maximum, maximum 32 units and a six‑month deadline to record the conditional‑zoning agreement).