218 Chester Street rezone
Rezone of two parcels from R-1-6 to R-2S for an owner-occupied townhome project; a concept shows 32 units with a dog park, gazebo and public open space. The council approved it 7-0 on Feb. 20, 2024 after objections on traffic, density and parking. Subdivision review is still to come.
- Where it stands
- Approved
- Type
- Zone change
- Location
- 218 Chester Street
- Size
- 2.38 acres
- Homes
- 32
- Applicant
- Rick Southwick
Every hearing and vote
February 6, 2024 · City Council
Proposed rezone of 218 Chester Street from R-1-6 to R-2S (work session)
Discussed
Deputy Planning Manager Joe Simpson described a petition by Rick Southwick to rezone two parcels totaling 2.38 acres for owner-occupied townhomes; the Planning Commission recommended approval as consistent with the General Plan and Lynn Community Plan. Council questions covered differences between the zones, open space and whether owner-occupancy can be required. Developers said they aim for for-sale units under $400,000. Action was scheduled for Feb. 20.
- Applicant: Rick Southwick
- Acres: 2.38
- Current zone to proposed: R-1-6 to R-2S
February 20, 2024 · City Council
Ordinance 2024-3: rezone 218 Chester Street from R-1-6 to R-2S
Approved · 7-0
The council rezoned two parcels totaling 2.38 acres for owner-occupied townhomes after a long public hearing. The developers said maximum density in R-2S would be near 40 units and their concept has 32, with a dog park, gazebo and public open space; they said the plans are conceptual and will be refined in subdivision review. Opponents cited traffic on steep, icy streets, density and three-story buildings, parking, view loss, property values, enforcing owner-occupancy and the applicant's seat on the Planning Commission; Mr. Southwick said he recused himself from commission discussion of the project. Supporters, including Vice Chair White and Council Member Graf, cited individually platted for-sale units and a need for affordable ownership housing. Council Member Choberka asked about a traffic study, which staff said can be required at site-plan stage.
- Applicant: Rick Southwick
- Acres: 2.38
- Current zone to proposed: R-1-6 to R-2S
- Concept: 32 units; R-2S height limit 2.5 stories or 35 feet
- Planning Commission: recommended approval