The proposal to develop 32 multifamily units on Elizabeth Avenue dominated the meeting, with discussions centering around the potential impact of transitioning the land use designation from low-density to high-density residential. The applicant sought to change the designation to accommodate the construction of eight quadruplex buildings. The site, located at the northwest corner of Elizabeth Avenue and Queen Street, had remained vacant since being part of the Druid Hill subdivision platted in 1927. The proposed amendment would allow for a maximum of 15 units per acre, but the planning staff recommended an alternative zoning of multifamily medium density residential, which would limit the development to a maximum of 32 units. This recommendation was intended to create a transitional buffer between existing low and high-density areas.

A crucial component of the proposal involved the vacation of two unimproved rights-of-way, Zerith Avenue and Yale Street, which would add approximately 0.85 acres to the site if vacated. However, some board members expressed difficulty locating these roads on provided maps, prompting staff to direct them to land use maps in their packets.

Tensions arose when the board grappled with the implications of approving medium density without the right-of-way, which would allow the project to proceed as presented. A member noted concerns about the potential disruption to existing single-family homes, arguing that a leap from low density to high density could have disproportionate impacts on the neighborhood. The dialogue included technical aspects of the proposed subdivision, with inquiries about whether the applicant intended to pursue fee-simple ownership or collective ownership of the land.

Controversy deepened with the introduction of public commentary from Stan Johnston, who criticized the lack of essential documentation for the preliminary plat approval, such as surveys and construction plans. Johnston’s objections highlighted broader concerns about the planning department’s processes and the adequacy of the proposal without foundational plans.

The board also discussed the potential financial implications of developing the site, particularly regarding infrastructure costs associated with constructing new roads and bringing utilities to the property. Members debated whether the vacation of the right-of-way would automatically facilitate development, emphasizing the logistical and financial factors that must be considered. The absence of a concrete concept plan submitted with the application further complicated the board’s ability to thoroughly evaluate the proposal.

Another focal point of the meeting was the discussion of emergency access and road design within the proposed development. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of a hammerhead turnaround versus a cul-de-sac, with an emphasis on maintaining landscaping buffers while ensuring proper emergency vehicle access. The need for at least 20 feet of width for the hammerhead was noted, which could require adjustments to the landscaping buffer or result in a reduction of townhome units.

Questions arose about the pricing of the units and their accessibility to current residents, reflecting broader concerns about the affordability and attainability of housing in the area.

Despite the controversies and objections raised, the board moved to approve a zoning change to medium-density residential for the proposed development on Elizabeth Avenue, with a unanimous vote indicating a collective decision to support the proposed changes. The meeting concluded with requests for clearer staff reports to facilitate understanding of the extensive documentation associated with agenda items.