ZBA approves mixed-use conversion and special-use permit for 207 Gardner Street

The City of Rome Zoning Board of Appeals on Dec. 3 approved two related applications for 207 Gardner Street: a use variance to permit a dwelling unit above the ground level and a special-use permit to operate a lamp/lighting repair and retail business on the first floor.

A prospective buyer who identified themself in the record as "Bridal McCormack" described the upstairs area as a frame structure with a separate rear entrance and said the proposed dwelling would be a single studio of roughly 600 square feet with casement window and skylights. For the ground floor, the applicant outlined two options: a retail-oriented shop where customers can buy lamps and parts, or a workshop base for lamp repair and service. The applicant said the shop would be approximately 800–900 square feet and that hours would depend on staffing (weekend hours if owner-operated; typical 9 a.m.–4 p.m. if staff hired).

Board members asked about parking; the applicant said Gardner Street is a dead-end and currently the only building on the road and that street parking is available. She said she is pursuing purchase of adjacent parcels and could potentially arrange shared parking (comparable to arrangements used by nearby apartment owners). Oneida County Department of Planning provided a memo dated Nov. 12, 2025, with no recommendation. The board moved for and carried a negative declaration for SEQR/noncoordinated review, then approved the use variance and the special-use permit.

The chair twice reminded the applicant to consult with Mark Domenico in the codes office about building permits and any required site or parking arrangements. The transcript records no special conditions attached to the approvals.