Planning Commission backs downtown triplex project with conditions, asks for deed restriction and landscape plan

Finley’s Planning Commission on April 9 recommended approval of a conditional-use application to allow three triplex buildings (nine units total) downtown, with an associated off-site parking lot, subject to conditions and required variances from the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Staff said the project would place triplexes on narrow R3 parcels just north of the downtown C3 district, with a 16-space parking lot on an adjacent parcel; staff supported the conditional use provided the applicant obtain variances for lot coverage and to allow required parking to be located on a separate parcel and provided a final landscaping/screening plan for the parking lot.

Scott Bisen, representing the applicant, told commissioners the parking layout required some adjustments and that the owner is willing to record a deed restriction tying the parcels so parking cannot be sold separately. Commissioners asked for a dimensioned parking plan, pedestrian access through any planting strips and assurances that the parking layout and landscaping fit code standards. Engineering said it will coordinate sewer work tied to the parking-lot location.

A motion to recommend approval included three additional conditions: (1) a deed restriction ensuring the parking parcel and triplex parcels remain tied if sold, (2) a final landscape/screening plan for the parking lot approved by staff, and (3) a revised dimensioned parking plan showing accurate counts and dimensions. The board recorded support for the recommendation; one commissioner abstained.

Next steps: the applicant must obtain the listed variances from the Board of Zoning Appeals, submit a revised, dimensioned parking plan and an approved landscaping plan for the parking lot, and coordinate with city engineering on utilities before permits are issued.