Historic preservation board backs variance to allow live-work use at 312 Sullivan Street

The Punta Gorda Historic Preservation Advisory Board on Feb. 6 voted to recommend approval of a variance allowing the property at 312 Sullivan Street to continue as a live-work configuration without adding a second story.

Rachel Berry, the city’s zoning official, told the board the request would seek relief from a 2-to-1 commercial-to-residential ratio in the land-development regulations and from a requirement that mixed-use buildings have two stories. "They are requesting the variance to be able to still have the live work type building that was previously permitted when they bought the property and to allow that type of configuration now," Berry said.

Board members asked whether approving the variance would set a precedent; staff replied that each application must independently demonstrate hardship. Members also discussed whether exterior changes — including an applicant’s request to place a ramp at the building’s front for commercial access — would alter the historic character. Berry said the ramp request is part of the current proposal and explained the alternative of pursuing vested rights (application fee $1,500) versus filing a variance (application fee $750).

A board member moved to approve the variance and another seconded; the board chair then called for the vote and the motion carried. Staff will forward the board’s recommendation and any comments to the Board of Zoning Appeals for final consideration.

The board’s recommendation is advisory; the zoning board will make the final decision under the city’s review process.