In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposal to classify a residential property in the Miles Square area as a two-family dwelling. The property, built in the 1950s and 1960s, currently operates as a single-family home with an upstairs efficiency unit, a common feature of homes from that era. The owner seeks to formalize the classification to accommodate student rentals, which necessitates addressing parking requirements under current zoning regulations.

The property meets the necessary criteria for a two-family classification, including lot size and coverage. However, the primary obstacle identified is the ability to count existing parking spaces, specifically a two-car garage and driveway, towards the required parking for a two-family designation. The owner emphasized that the request does not involve expanding the parking area but rather seeks recognition of the spaces already available.

The discussion highlighted the unique zoning provisions in Miles Square, which historically discourage the construction of two-car garages. The owner argued that the intent of these regulations is more applicable to new constructions rather than adaptations of existing buildings. They expressed concern that the inability to count the existing parking spaces would hinder the property's potential to meet zoning requirements and limit its use.

Future plans for the property include potential renovations to the upstairs unit, aiming to transform it into a larger apartment without altering the building's footprint. The meeting underscored the importance of balancing historical preservation with the need for increased housing density in the area, as city planners target such developments to address housing demands. The outcome of this discussion will determine the feasibility of the proposed changes and the property's future use.