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Planning commission approves PUD overlay and reduced setback for Van Buren housing project
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a PUD overlay and a variance reducing the front yard setback at 224 Van Buren, allowing two three‑family buildings (six units). Neighbors raised parking and street‑width concerns in an email read into the record.
The City of Defiance Planning Commission on June 15 approved a planned unit development overlay and a variance to reduce the front yard setback at 224 Van Buren, clearing the way for two three‑family buildings that would replace an existing house.
Applicant Brian Campbell told the Commission he wanted the new buildings “in line with the neighbors’ houses,” and sought a reduction of the 25‑foot front yard setback to 14 feet to achieve that alignment. Zoning Commissioner Niki Warncke noted the lot abuts a paper street on the west side, which creates two front yards for the parcel and affects how the setback is measured. City Engineer Melinda Sprow asked the applicant to verify on‑site vehicle maneuverability; Mr. Campbell said he would consult his engineer.
The Commission also had an email from a nearby resident read into the record. Resident Virginia Becker wrote that parking in a similar development had forced cars onto the street and warned that “Van Buren Street is not wide enough nor long enough to accommodate extra vehicles parked along side the road.” Warncke confirmed the proposal shows one garage space and one additional off‑street parking space per unit and that parking will be reviewed again when the zoning certificate is applied for.
After discussion, the Commission approved the variance reducing the setback and approved the map amendment/PUD; the Commission’s action was a recommendation to City Council. The minutes record the votes as unanimous.
