Commission recommends rezoning 218 Beacon Boulevard to I‑2 to combine with larger industrial parcel

The Planning Commission recommended that the City Council approve a request to rezone about 0.33 acres at 218 Beacon Boulevard from C‑2 (general business) to I‑2 (general industrial) so the parcel can be combined with an adjacent industrial tract owned by Cooper Steel and intended to become part of a larger industrial site.

Staff said the rezoning will create a temporary nonconformity and an unbuildable lot under I‑2 zoning until the parcel is combined by plat with an adjoining six‑plus‑acre industrial parcel; staff explained the applicant intends to demolish an existing building before the plat is recorded. The future land use map labels the area as mixed‑density residential, and staff noted the map is inconsistent with the long history of industrial use in that corridor.

Commission discussion noted newer residential development across the street and nearby senior housing and a mobile home park that is functioning as a nonconforming use. Commissioners asked questions about lot history and ownership; staff and the applicant clarified that Cooper Steel owns multiple adjoining lots and intends to consolidate them.

A motion to forward a favorable recommendation to the City Council passed by roll call; the item will now go to the council for final action.