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ZBA approves alteration to nonconforming building at 1700 Packard St, allowing six‑bedroom unit
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Summary
The zoning board granted permission to alter a nonconforming structure at 1700 Packard Street, allowing the petitioner to join basement and first floor to create a six‑bedroom unit; members said the footprint does not change and code compliance will be required.
The Ann Arbor Zoning Board of Appeals voted to approve an alteration to a nonconforming structure at 1700 Packard Street that will join basement and first‑floor space to create a single six‑bedroom dwelling unit, provided the work meets building and rental‑housing code requirements.
City zoning coordinator John Barrett presented ZBA case 17‑023, saying the parcel is in the R4C district, the lot is nonconforming at 6,621 square feet (the district minimum is 8,500 square feet), and the petition proposes no exterior changes or increase in footprint but would convert internal space and add two bedrooms to make a six‑bedroom unit. Barrett said the applicant is not seeking a variance but an alteration to a nonconforming structure and that bedrooms in basements must meet building and glazing requirements enforced by the rental‑housing code.
Architect Rob Burrows, representing the petitioner, said an exterior stair added in 2016 provides basement access and that the work will be permitted and inspected to meet codes. "What we are proposing tonight is essentially an alteration to a nonconforming use...there is no expansion to the building footprint," Burrows told the board.
Neighbor Leticia Shapiro, who lives at 1706 Packard Street, opposed the change and described parking and trash problems she associates with the property. "Adding 2 more bedrooms is going to increase the detrimental effect to my property," she said, telling the board she has lived next to the site for 29 years and that cars have at times blocked her driveway.
Property co‑owner Heidi Mitchell, speaking in support, said the owners are long‑time community members, described management and screening practices and said they would reach out to neighbors and the property manager to improve communication.
In discussion, several board members said the ZBA’s responsibility is the physical alteration, not tenants’ behavior, and noted that because the building envelope is unchanged the request fits the standards for alteration of a nonconforming structure. Todd Grant moved to approve the petition; the motion passed with a majority and one dissent. Chair Candace Breyer announced that the request was approved; staff and the petitioner will ensure compliance with building and rental‑housing code during permitting and inspections.
