The September 4, 2025, City of Boulder City Council meeting focused on a site review amendment and use review for the property at 1836 Nineteenth Street. The proposal aims to convert the existing structure into a single-family detached dwelling unit within the RH-2 zoning district and amend the existing Planned Unit Development (PUD) to maintain the current rear deck.

City Council member Shannon Moller from the Planning Department initiated the discussion, outlining the quasi-judicial process for the meeting. This included a presentation from staff, followed by a public hearing for community comments and a chance for the applicant to respond. The council was tasked with making a decision based on the findings and recommendations presented.

The property, originally developed in the 1980s as a group care home for individuals with developmental disabilities, has undergone changes in ownership and use. The current proposal seeks to adaptively reuse the structure as a detached dwelling unit, with minor updates to the site, including reducing parking spaces from three to two and enhancing landscaping and bike parking.

The Planning Board previously reviewed the application, approving the site review amendment but denying the use review. The board's denial was based on the applicant's failure to demonstrate that the proposed dwelling unit was located in an area where detached units predominate. However, staff found that the proposal met the necessary site review criteria and was consistent with the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP) policies, supporting the eclectic character of the neighborhood.

During the meeting, staff highlighted that the area surrounding the property consists of a mix of residential uses, including detached units, duplexes, and larger apartment buildings. They noted that 47% of the residential structures in the vicinity are detached dwelling units, which supports the argument for the proposed use.

The council's decision-making process requires a minimum of five votes to pass any motion, which must include findings, conclusions, and recommendations. The meeting concluded with the council discussing the implications of the proposal and the next steps for the application.

Overall, the City Council's deliberation on this matter reflects ongoing efforts to balance development needs with community character and zoning regulations in Boulder.