Board tables request to waive parking requirement for proposed apartments at 52–54 South Broadway

The Board of Zoning Appeals on June 30 tabled a request to waive the off-street parking requirement for a proposed conversion of the upper floors at 52–54 South Broadway into five residential units.

Applicant John Kirk, who said he owns 25% of the building, told the board the project would create four two-bedroom units and one one-bedroom unit. He acknowledged the property has "zero" off-street parking and that the applicants had not yet secured alternate parking arrangements.

Board members reminded the applicant that the local ordinance requires two off-street spaces per apartment — 10 spaces for the project — and that any prior grandfathering or variance typically does not transfer automatically when ownership changes. Members advised the applicants to try negotiating written parking agreements with neighboring businesses, approach an identified local commercial lot owner who has accommodated others in the past, or explore use of a city-owned lot as backup parking.

A board member said city two-hour curb parking and inconsistent enforcement make residential use of downtown curb spaces problematic because long-term tenant parking can displace short-term customers. The board emphasized that a practical, enforceable off-site parking solution would lessen the risk of downtown business conflicts.

After discussion, Joe Molinex moved to table the variance request to allow the applicants time to pursue off-site parking arrangements; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

The board did not make a decision on the variance; members said they would reconsider the request if the applicants return with written agreements or another viable parking plan.