The City of Washington Planning & Zoning Commission convened on June 9, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including a proposal for a long-term rental at 902 Missouri Avenue. The meeting began with the approval of minutes from the previous session, followed by a detailed discussion on the proposed change in use for the property.

Edward Schmell, the applicant, presented his case for converting the property from a short-term rental to a long-term rental. The property, located in a Commercial District (C-1), meets the necessary criteria for long-term residential use, as it is over 50 years old and has previously been used as a residential structure. The surrounding area has historically been residential, despite recent commercial developments.

Schmell explained that the building has undergone significant renovations and is currently in good condition. He emphasized that transitioning to a long-term rental would likely have less impact on the neighborhood compared to short-term rentals, which attract larger groups of visitors. The property features five parking spaces and a long entrance, minimizing disruption to traffic on the adjacent highway.

Commission members raised questions about the nature of the rental, confirming it is a single-family unit with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Schmell indicated that no further improvements to the property are planned, as it has already been extensively rehabilitated.

After deliberation, the commission voted unanimously in favor of granting the special use permit for the long-term rental, allowing Schmell to proceed with his plans. The meeting concluded with a motion to move on to the next agenda item, indicating a productive session focused on community development and zoning regulations.