Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Middle Housing Appeals topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission hears appeals for two narrow West 5th Avenue lots seeking middle‑housing approvals
Summary
Staff recommended denial of two appeals (1415 and 1409 West 5th Avenue) where applicants seek to use article 17.3 to develop three‑unit 'middle housing' structures on narrow nonconforming lots; staff said lots are too narrow and the proposed configurations are inconsistent with surrounding block patterns.
Staff presented appeals for two adjacent narrow lots on West 5th Avenue that propose three‑unit middle housing structures under article 17.3 (nonconforming lot of record). For 1415 West 5th Avenue staff said the lot measures 25 feet wide by 94 feet deep, and for 1409 West 5th Avenue the lot is 24.6 feet wide by 90 feet deep. Staff argued the proposed configurations — two side‑by‑side middle housing structures in a 'slot house' configuration — are not consistent with adjacent blocks and do not meet article 4.6 standards; staff recommended denial in both cases.
Commissioners asked whether prior approvals created precedent. Staff replied that approvals are evaluated on a case‑by‑case basis and that commissioners are not bound to follow prior decisions; the body may affirm, modify, impose conditions, or overrule staff determinations.
The appeals drew procedural questions about how to frame findings of fact and how to maintain a clear record should the commission choose to approve or deny individual conditions.
