Board approves variance for mixed-use building on Atlantic Street
December 24, 2024 | Newport, Providence County, Rhode Island
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The Newport City Zoning Board of Review convened on December 24, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on a variance request related to a mixed-use property. The meeting highlighted the board's commitment to balancing business interests with neighborhood concerns.
The first significant discussion centered around the variance request from Mr. Martins, who proposed changes to a property that has historically operated as a guest house. Board members expressed their support for the application, noting that Mr. Martins had taken the board's previous advice seriously. He made substantial modifications to his proposal, including hiring a traffic expert and conducting a property survey to address concerns about parking and traffic.
Board member Mr. Grimes emphasized that the requested variance was the minimum necessary for the reasonable enjoyment of the property. He acknowledged the potential impact on the surrounding residential neighborhoods but noted that the property had a history of business use, which should be considered. He also pointed out that the applicant's commitment to removing excess paraphernalia from the parking lot would help alleviate parking concerns.
Ms. Sherry echoed Mr. Grimes' sentiments, praising the applicant for being well-prepared and responsive to the board's feedback. She highlighted the ongoing parking issues in Newport and recognized that the property’s large lot could help mitigate some of these challenges. The board members collectively agreed that the conditions set forth in the application were reasonable and necessary for the project's success.
In conclusion, the board's discussions reflected a careful consideration of both the applicant's needs and the community's interests. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between business owners and residents in maintaining the character of Newport's neighborhoods while accommodating necessary developments. The board's decision on the variance request is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, with further discussions anticipated to ensure all community concerns are addressed.
The first significant discussion centered around the variance request from Mr. Martins, who proposed changes to a property that has historically operated as a guest house. Board members expressed their support for the application, noting that Mr. Martins had taken the board's previous advice seriously. He made substantial modifications to his proposal, including hiring a traffic expert and conducting a property survey to address concerns about parking and traffic.
Board member Mr. Grimes emphasized that the requested variance was the minimum necessary for the reasonable enjoyment of the property. He acknowledged the potential impact on the surrounding residential neighborhoods but noted that the property had a history of business use, which should be considered. He also pointed out that the applicant's commitment to removing excess paraphernalia from the parking lot would help alleviate parking concerns.
Ms. Sherry echoed Mr. Grimes' sentiments, praising the applicant for being well-prepared and responsive to the board's feedback. She highlighted the ongoing parking issues in Newport and recognized that the property’s large lot could help mitigate some of these challenges. The board members collectively agreed that the conditions set forth in the application were reasonable and necessary for the project's success.
In conclusion, the board's discussions reflected a careful consideration of both the applicant's needs and the community's interests. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between business owners and residents in maintaining the character of Newport's neighborhoods while accommodating necessary developments. The board's decision on the variance request is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, with further discussions anticipated to ensure all community concerns are addressed.
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