11/12/07 Zoning and Annexation Committee

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Zoning and Annexation Committee Meeting Minutes of November 12, 2007 Page 2 Bill No. 53-07: Proposed Re-Zoning of 3030 Northside Boulevard: Council Member Kirsits then called for a presentation on Bill No. 53-07 which seeks a rezoning of the home on 3030 Northside Boulevard. Mark Lyons of the Area Plan Staff reported that the Bill received a public hearing before the Area Plan Commission on October 16, 2007 on the request to rezone from SF2 Single Family and Two Family District to MF1 Urban Corridor Multifamily District. Area Plan sends the request to the Council with an unfavorable recommendation. Larry O. Steele of 3030 Northside Boulevard made the formal presentation on behalf of himself and his wife, Beverly. He stated that the built the home nine (9) years ago and are semi-retired. He provided a 4-page handout (copy attached) depicting the floor plan of the residence, a petition dated October 13, 2007 signed by thirteen (13) neighbors, a 1-page cover letter to the petition signed by himself and his wife, and pone-page map entitled "Variances to be south after rezoning is complete". He noted that he has had several relatives living with him, but now he is renting to two (2) brothers and likes to have people in the home when he and his wife are away. He noted that their driveway is in the right-of-way and do not believe that the proposed rezoning would have a negative impact on the neighborhood. He noted that multi-family exits in the 2700, 2800, 3100 and 3500 blocks. Mr. Steele added that of the nineteen home owners near him, 13 have signed the petition and three (3) are vacant homes. In response to questions from Council Member Puzzello, Acting Building Commissioner Charles Bulot stated that the home was built nine (9) years ago as a single family dwelling. Mr. Bulot stated that there must be solid separation walls existing; there must be independent exterior entrances to the units; and there must be separate utilities. Council Member Kirsits noted that the parking in the area is very tight, noting that the petitioner's driveway is gravel. In response to questions from Dr. Varner, Mr. Steele stated that they own two (2) vehicles however one was recently in an accident. Dr. Varner voiced concern about the parking if the property would be rezoned. In response to questions from Council Member Puzzello, Mr. Bulot stated that if the property is rezoned there could be up to eight (8) persons who could live there. Paul Jankowski of 3038 Northside Boulevard stated that Mr. Steele has a very thorough application process for renters. He lives there and loves the neighborhood. He stated that he believes that someone might have something against Mr. Steele since he received a nasty letter and has been subject to verbal abuse from certain neighbors.