Council to consider reduced side-yard setback for ADU in North Central Historic District

Temple — City staff told council members on Jan. 15 that a property owner in the North Central Historic District is seeking rezoning from single-family to planned development to allow a smaller side-yard setback so a garage with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can be rebuilt on a property at the northeast corner of Ninth and Bridge.

Staff said the historic-preservation board approved a certificate of appropriateness for the proposal and that the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval with a 3-foot minimum side-yard setback after the commission concluded a 1-foot setback requested by the builder was unnecessary. Staff said the stair on the north side is the only portion approaching the side-yard encroachment and suggested it be constructed of noncombustible material.

Staff noted utilities are in place and that the lot fits the district's urban-residential character. Council discussion included fire/emergency egress concerns; staff said one planning-commission member who is a firefighter supported the 3-foot condition because it aids emergency access. The item will return for action at the regular meeting.