Planning Commission recommends rezoning of 0.93-acre Dover Street parcel to R-3

The Planning Commission voted to provide a favorable recommendation to City Council for the rezoning of a roughly 0.93-acre parcel at 128 Dover Street from C-2 (general business) to R-3 (medium-density residential). Owner Shannon Lee Harris asked that the commission forward the request.

Planning staff said the parcel sits in a mixed-density residential character area on the city's future land use map and that surrounding parcels are principally residential despite the commercial zoning. Planner Marshall said, "If the planning commission concurs with it, then we're requesting a favorable recommendation." Staff noted public infrastructure and services exist to serve a single-family residence on the lot.

The request covers an existing accessory structure the staff called nonconforming until a principal dwelling is constructed. The staff report lists standard construction-period comments and recommended conditions to address those items during permitting.

Commissioners questioned why the owner sought R-3 rather than R-1 for a single-family home; staff and the owner said the surrounding neighborhood and future land use supported medium-density zoning. Commissioners also discussed road width and right-of-way needs on Dover Street and asked staff to pursue required right-of-way dedications during the building-permit process.

Planning staff said the item will go to City Council on Sept. 2 for a study session, with a first reading scheduled for Sept. 11 and a possible second reading in October. The commission moved for a favorable recommendation; a roll-call vote recorded all members present voting yes.

No appeals or variances were acted upon at the meeting; the commission's recommendation simply forwards the rezoning request to City Council for final consideration.