Board approves townhome developer’s request to drop required open space at 1631 Cleveland Street

The Augusta Board of Zoning Appeals voted to approve a variance allowing a five‑unit townhome development at 1631 Cleveland Street to proceed without the ordinance‑required 25% permanent open space.

Kevin Boy, Development Services Manager, presented the staff report for petition BZA‑26‑02, describing the 0.38‑acre site, previous demolition permit activity, and plans for five two‑story townhome units with attached garages. Staff said the proposal meets setback and buffer requirements per the comprehensive zoning ordinance but does not provide a public common area; at the time of report completion staff had not received public inquiries about the application.

Applicant representative Ingrid Duque (listed at 1631 Cleveland Street) made a brief appearance and offered no additional comments beyond thanks to the board. Miss Williams moved to approve the variance and Miss Morton seconded; the board approved the request, with one abstention recorded by Mr. Paschal.

Board and staff discussion focused on conformance with setbacks and buffer standards and on the recording of any conditions tied to permits. The board instructed the applicant to follow standard permitting steps.

The variance removes the 25% permanent open‑space requirement for this development, subject to permit review and any conditions the board or staff impose during the building‑permit process.