Commission denies small-lot townhome rezoning after neighbors urge preservation of historic character

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial (4–3) of a proposed rezoning that would have allowed two attached units on a 0.11-acre lot at the southeast corner of West Irwin Avenue and Coleman Street. Downtown development planner Kiara Robinson said the small parcel is designated residential in the comprehensive plan and that the TR1.8 district permits attached housing; she told commissioners the request "aligns with the comprehensive plan" for the town-center area. The commission first considered a motion to approve, which failed 3–4.

Applicant Sean Peckham described the proposal as two attached units of roughly "1,000 to 1,200 square feet" with detached covered parking. Neighbors expressed concern about neighborhood character and historic context. Augustine Guerrero told the commission he "strongly oppose[d] this zone change," saying the lots set the tone for the historic district entrance and that denser development would not fit the area. Another resident, Tandra Dillon, said she and her family have lived in their single-family home for nearly 20 years and said townhomes would bring more renters and reduce neighborhood cohesion.

Commissioners questioned whether two-story units could overlook adjacent backyards and whether the lot size and setbacks would permit the proposed product without detracting from the block. After debate and sequential votes, the commission voted 4–3 to recommend denial; the recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for final action on Oct. 20, 2026.