Board backs repeal of 1998 variance for 556 Ward Avenue, recommends conversion to two units

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted May 21 to forward a repeal of Ordinance 12,065 — the previously approved variation that allowed a four-unit structure at 556 Ward Avenue — to the city council with a recommendation of approval.

Staff said the building sustained extensive fire damage in 2024 and has remained vacant. The petitioner, Brian Contreras, who lives nearby and identified himself at the hearing, said he plans to convert the existing structure into two larger dwelling units to better fit the neighborhood character and to make the property easier to manage.

Board members asked about permits and vacancy; staff recommended approval of the repeal with conditions that require obtaining all necessary building permits, enrollment in the city's rental inspection program, and a prohibition on future expansion of the use. The board voted in favor of forwarding the repeal to council with those recommendations.

The decision will go to city council for final action; building permits and compliance with rental inspection requirements must be in place before any certificate of occupancy is issued for remodeled units.