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Board approves several triplex/rehab requests, continues one pending habitability review
Summary
Norristown’s Zoning Hearing Board approved renewal or conversion relief for several multi‑unit properties (1415 DeKalb, 1314/1316 DeKalb) with conditions; one triplex matter (1733 Willow) was continued after a tenant raised habitability and flooding complaints.
At its April 28 meeting the Norristown Zoning Hearing Board acted on multiple applications to renew or reestablish multi‑unit residential occupancy and to convert commercial buildings into apartments.
1415 DeKalb (application 11‑26): Counsel said the building is configured as a three‑unit property with separate utilities and county records outdating to 2014. The board approved the request for relief but conditioned the action on payment of any past‑due rental license fees dating back to 2021.
1733 Willow (application 12‑26): During the hearing a tenant, Nijaya Allen, testified to ongoing habitability problems including mold, a collapsed ceiling, utility interruptions and a flooded basement. Councilman Dustin Quinn urged municipal inspection and said the council would follow up on violations. The applicant requested and the board granted a continuance to the May 26 docket so the municipality and applicant can present updated interior photos and inspection results.
1314/1316 DeKalb (applications 13‑26 and 14‑26): VM Realty proposed converting two adjacent parcels into apartment units. Architect testimony described interior renovations, required fire rating and proposed sprinkler upgrades, and on‑site parking for 11–14 vehicles after striping. The applicant amended plans during the hearing and agreed to a three‑unit configuration for each parcel; the board approved both applications, each on a 3‑1 vote.
The board’s approvals frequently included conditions tying relief to code compliance: payment of back licensing fees (1415 DeKalb), and required building, fire and handicap‑access upgrades where applicable (1314/1316 DeKalb). The continued 1733 Willow matter will return with inspection documentation and interior photos.
