The City of Des Moines Plan and Zoning Commission meeting on June 5, 2025, focused on a proposal to rezone a property to allow for five residential dwelling units. The current owner aims to make minor renovations and has received a certificate of appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Commission, which includes specific conditions for improvements.

The property is located in an established neighborhood with access to various amenities, including transit, commercial areas, schools, and parks. City staff indicated that the proposed multifamily use aligns with land use goals, supporting development in areas with existing infrastructure. They believe that the addition of up to five residential units is suitable given the neighborhood's mix of housing types and densities.

However, concerns were raised regarding parking availability. The staff recommended that the maximum number of units be limited to five due to the existing five off-street parking spaces and the overall parking scarcity in the area.

If the rezoning request is denied, the applicant can still utilize the property as a single residential unit, which is permitted under current zoning regulations. Additionally, recent state legislation allows for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the property, enabling the owner to have a second unit, provided it meets specific size restrictions.

In conclusion, the staff is recommending approval of the rezoning from N5 to Nx1, contingent upon the property containing no more than five dwelling units. This decision reflects the city's commitment to encouraging development while addressing parking concerns.