Board approves seven‑story, 124‑unit mixed‑use building and 118‑space parking variance in Newport

The board voted to approve case BA 2602, granting a conditional use permit for a seven‑story mixed‑use building with 124 apartment units and two first‑floor commercial spaces and a parking variance of 118 spaces.

The project, identified in the staff report as a 7‑story, 124‑unit building under application by 400 Monmouth LLC (listed in materials as 400 Grama Street LLC), will rely on a nearby public parking garage the applicant says will serve hotel guests and residents. "We do believe the parking that would be provided by the public garage will be sufficient for the entire project," said Jim Parsons, representing the applicant, describing long negotiations that included city financing for the garage.

The board’s motion to approve cited conformance with section 10.3, table 6 of the zoning ordinance and found the proposed development would be compatible with the existing and planned mixed‑use character of the Central Business District. The motion also stated the project would not adversely affect public health, safety or welfare and that strict application of parking requirements would be inconsistent with the district’s shared‑parking environment. A committee member moved to approve and the motion passed on a roll call vote: Steve Matheson, Susan Whitehead, Nikki Bishop, Rich Livingood and Stephanie Seppen all voted yes.

Staff’s presentation described the proposal as a seven‑story multifamily building with two commercial tenant spaces on the first floor and noted incentives the city has offered to move the project forward. Jeff Doring, part of the design team, said historic‑preservation review had approved the façade, the tree board had approved street‑tree work, and the project is awaiting Urban Design Review Board feedback. The design team confirmed the unit mix includes 12 two‑bedroom units with the remainder one‑bedroom units and studios.

Board members pressed the applicant on whether any garage spaces would be reserved exclusively for residents or hotels. Applicant counsel and the design team said tax‑exempt bond financing for the public garage limits exclusive private reservations; the applicant suggested monthly leases or limited loading spaces could be negotiated with the city but that most parking would remain public.

The board’s approval includes planning conditions noted in the motion that elevation and landscaping approvals will proceed through Urban Design Review and city arborist consultation. The motion and supporting findings were recorded in the public hearing transcript; construction timing and permit compliance were not specified in the record.

The board proceeded to the next agenda item after the approval.