ZBA approves mixed-use conversion at 207 Gardner Street, including upstairs dwelling and lamp repair shop

The City of Rome Zoning Board of Appeals on Dec. 3 approved a use variance (25-024) and a special use permit (25-025) allowing the conversion of a garage at 207 Gardner Street into a mixed-use building with lamp/lighting repair and retail on the first floor and a studio dwelling on the second floor.

Brian McCormick, the prospective buyer, said the upstairs unit is a framed room with a separate rear entrance and stair and would function as a self-contained studio, estimated at about 600 square feet. He told the board he planned to use street parking initially and is negotiating to acquire adjacent parcels for longer-term parking solutions; he also cited the possibility of a handshake agreement with a nearby lot used by other apartment buildings.

McCormick described two business options for the ground floor: a retail-focused shop where customers can buy lamps and parts, or a smaller commercial workshop focused on repair. He estimated the shop area at about 800 to 900 square feet and said hours are to be determined—likely weekend-only if operated solely by him or 9 a.m.–4 p.m. if he hires staff, depending in part on grant funding for hiring.

County planning provided a Nov. 12, 2025 letter (James J. Genovese) offering no recommendation. The board adopted a negative declaration for SEQR, then unanimously approved both the use variance for the upstairs dwelling and the special use permit for the mixed-use operation. Board members reminded the applicant to consult the codes office for permits and to finalize parking arrangements before opening.

The approvals permit McCormick to proceed with permitting and implementation steps required by the codes office.