Commission recommends rezoning at 415 Quapa to allow historic rehabilitation into two townhomes

The Hot Springs Planning Commission on March 12 recommended that the Board of Directors rezone 415 Quapa Avenue from neighborhood commercial (CN) to RN5 (residential neighborhood 5) so the property can be rehabilitated and returned to residential use.

Director Selman told commissioners the building at 415 Quapa is a contributing structure to the Quapa Prospect Historic District (built circa 1904) and that the applicant proposes sensitive rehabilitation of the two‑unit layout using historic rehabilitation tax credits. Staff recommended a future land use map amendment to residential medium‑high so the request would be consistent with the comprehensive plan and noted the rezoning would correct a nonconforming residential use in the CN district.

Applicant Robert (Bob) Kempus said utilities to the property had been off for several years but that his nephews are general contractors with experience in the neighborhood and that the family is “pretty familiar with tax credit processes.” He described the building as a Queen Anne–style Victorian and said the plan is for two townhomes that retain historic character.

No members of the public signed up to speak on the item. After discussion the commission recorded votes in favor (Walker, Val, Lemon, Campbell, Gerky, Stone, Stafford) and recommended the rezoning; Director Selman said the Board of Directors will consider the ordinance on April 7 and requested a project representative attend that meeting.

Any rehabilitation work using state historic tax credits will follow applicable review and permitting processes.