Harrisburg City Zoning Hearing Board Meeting - 10/20/25
Good evening everyone. Today it's
October 20th. This is the uh monthly
meeting of the Harrisburg zoding board.
Okay.
All the people in attendance to my left
Mr. Hob James Hops
left right to my left Mr. Michael our
solicitor. And to his to his left is
Michael Connor.
And in front of me is the director of uh
planning for city of Harrisburg.
And to his right is the is somebody
somebody from the city law office, Miss
Cameron representing city. Okay. And I'm
chips.
So it over.
>> Yep. We're ready to go. Sure. Well, um I
just want to remind everybody that the
zoning hearing board is a quasi judicial
body. Uh we're going to hear evidence
tonight on five different applications.
Um for all these applications, we we
will have Jeffrey Knight, the planning
director of the city of Harrisburg, uh
here and attorney uh Tarsa Cameron from
the city of Harrisburg Law Bureau. uh
the zoning hearing board um once it
receives evidence um from each uh one of
the applicants that will apply the law.
Uh law in this case is the
municipalities planning code, the city
of Harrisburg zoning code and also
relevant case law. We have a court
reporter here um by law uh we have um a
court reporter who's going to take down
word for word what everybody says um in
case one of these cases should be
appealed. Uh so that being said, we want
to make sure that we don't talk uh over
one another uh so that we have an
accurate transcript and also I just want
to remind everybody to silence uh their
electronic uh devices so there's no
interruptions. The first matter uh this
evening is uh matter number 2615. It's a
special exception request relative to
property located at 2017 North Sixth
Street. This property is zoned general
uh commercial general CG. Um and it was
the application was filed by Robbie
Singh with uh 2017 North Sixth Street
LLC
uh to request relief uh from the off-
streetet parking requirements associated
with the redevelopment of the site in
question and expansion of a convenience
store.
Uh so with that being said um we're
going to um first uh swear in Mr. Knight
um who's the planning director. Um and
Mr. Knight, when we swear you in, you'll
be sworn in for every uh application
this evening. Do you swear or affirm
that the testimony about to give before
the board will be the truth and nothing
but the truth?
>> I do.
>> Okay. Um M Mr. uh Nolman, you're uh
representing your client this evening.
you want to introduce yourself and also
anybody that you might have testify,
we'll swear them in all together and get
that out of the way.
>> Okay. Uh good afternoon board. Uh my
name is Jacob Domen. I'm an attorney
with Stevens and Lee here on behalf of
the African 2017 North Sixth Street. Uh
with me today is Sean Hos uh to my left
here and then as well Robbie Singh uh
the member of the LLC and they will both
be testifying. Sean Hos more directly.
Uh Robbie's here for if the board has
any questions.
>> Okay. Um Mr. Hos, um you gave the court
reporter your card.
>> Yes, I did.
>> Okay. So, we have the right spelling.
Your last name is spelled how?
>> H A S.
>> Okay.
Okay. And then uh Mr. Singh, you're here
present also. Could you both raise your
right hands? So, we'll swear in
together. Do you uh swear or affirm that
the testimonial you'll give before this
board this evening will be the truth and
nothing but the truth?
>> I do. I do.
>> Okay. Thank you.
Um Mr. Knight, what we usually do is
we'll have the planning director give an
overview and then you could present your
case. Okay. So, Mr. Knight, would you
like to give us an overview?
>> Uh yes. So uh the uh project for case
2615 uh involves the redevelopment of uh
the existing gas station with
convenience store um aspect or
development um into a larger convenience
store component of that use. Um, as part
of this project, uh, they will be
demolishing the existing structure on
site and, uh, constructing a more
modern, larger convenience store at the
eastern end of the property, which is
currently a gravel lot, um, enclosed by
a chain link fence. Um and as part of
this uh proposal uh because the off-
streetet parking requirements are based
on the square footage of the uh retail
store um the increase in the size of
that um component of the project uh
necessitates a significant increase in
the amount of off- streetet parking
required um and because the applicants
are not able to uh meet that on site uh
they are uh requesting a special
exception for relief from the off-
streetet parking requirements. I believe
under the current uh zoning code, the
current configuration uh would require
about 25 spaces and I believe the um new
one would require uh 58 off- streetet
parking spaces. Um and the applicants
will be providing 31 spaces on site. Um
as noted in the uh planning bureau's
case report uh you know we do feel uh
that there are justifications based on
the criteria in the zoning code uh to
grant uh the requested relief um both
because there is available on street
parking um along uh adjacent nearby
roads uh specifically uh North Sixth
Street south of the project site as well
as on um some of the uh some of the
streets between North Sixth Street and
North Seventh Street nearby. There are
also um several uh bus routes that uh go
up and down Sixth Street and across uh
Mccclelay Street. Uh but from a more
practical perspective, um the proposed
use uh generally has a fairly um
transient customer base with a short
turnaround times. Um you know, you might
get a significant amount of traffic
coming to the property, but it's likely
that um clients, customers uh will only
be there for several minutes at a time.
And so there's anticipated to be
significant turnover um of those parking
spaces. Uh and it should be noted that
the existing use um again while a
smaller uh uh building um has not really
experienced any issues with off-
streetet parking and with parking from
the use overflowing on the surrounding
uh streets. Um and given the increase in
proposed number of spaces uh on site um
it is anticipated that you know this
condition would continue going forward.
Um and uh you know again as noted I
think it's unlikely somebody takes a bus
to a gas station. Um but uh you know it
is there are uh bus routes alongside the
the site that would um you know meet the
criteria outlined in the zoning code. Um
so with respect to that uh the
planning commission recommends the
zoning hearing board approved the
request with the following conditions.
Uh the applicant should consider
removing the western most proposed curb
cut on the Mccclelay Street frontage of
the property given its proximity to the
intersection and potential to create
confusing and dangerous traffic
circulation for both drivers and
pedestrians with traffic anticipated to
increase upon completion of the building
directly to the north. Um and that's the
Atlas building across Mcclelay Street.
Pedestrian volumes will likely increase
at this intersection as well. Um and it
should be noted the applicants are
removing one of the um curb cuts onto
the property uh the northernmost one on
North Sixth Street. So, we're basically
requesting a similar removal of this.
Um, but it's more of a recommendation
than, you know, a requirement. Uh, the
applicant must coordinate with Capital
Region Water regarding the site
disturbance and proposed development
footprint to ascertain what storm water
mitigation efforts may be necessary. The
applicant should consider installing low
plant screenings in the setback areas
around the perimeter of the site to
improve the aesthetics of the property
and or incorporate storm water
management infrastructure if possible.
Uh, the applicant must ensure that the
proposed dumpster dumpster enclosure is
designed and constructed in conformance
with the regulations in section 7-331.12
of the zoning code. And finally, the
applicant must ensure that signage for
the redeveloped site is brought into
conformance with the zoning code and
that current non-conforming signage such
as feather flag signs and electronically
changing signage is removed and not
reinstalled. The planning commission
recommends that the Harrisburg County
Hearing Board approve the request for
the following reasons. The proposed
development will replace an outdated
makeshift structure and overgrown
undeveloped lot with a blighting
influence on the streetscape with a
modern convenience store building that
will enhance retail options for
surrounding residents and workers.
Because the use is already operating on
site, approval of the proposal will not
alter the essential character of the
neighborhood and will provide benefits
such as temporary construction jobs,
aesthetic improvements, and improved
traffic circulation.
And finally, the project will result in
the removal of one unnecessary curb cut
along North Sixth Street. hand, if the
bureau's conditions are adopted, a
second curb cut along with Clay Street,
clarifying vehicular access to the site,
removing vehicular pedestrian conflict
points, and making access and
circulation safer for all road users.
>> Thank you, Mr. Knight. Um, is there
anybody here um
that is uh opposed to this application?
Okay. Uh before we start, I'm going to
mark uh exhibits that the board has
received. Um so we have them in the
record. Um I've I've marked these as all
board exhibits. Um so board exhibit
number one B1 is the proof of
publication. The time and place and
particular nature of this matter was
advertised in the Patriot News which is
a newspaper of general circulation for
the city of Harrisburg. It appeared in
publication on October 5th and October
12th, 2025.
Exhibit B2 is a letter dated October 16,
2025 from planning director Jeffrey
Knight to the applicant notifying the
applicant of the time and place of the
hearing. Board exhibit number three is
the hearing notice which was posted upon
the property and that occurred on
September 25th, 2025.
Board exhibit number four are the
notification letters to the required
neighbors and a certificate of mailings.
The board exhibit number five is the
application packet with the attached
narrative photos of the property and
plans for the proposal. Board exhibit
number six is the deed establishing the
applicant standing to pursue zoning
relief this evening. Board exhibit
number seven B7 is a planning bureau
case report. And board exhibit number
eight is a city of Harrisburg planning
commission resolution. So we have board
exhibits one through eight
which will be admitted um into evidence
in this matter and Mr. Domen um
it's all yours.
>> Thank you attorney Pos. Uh again my name
is Jake Domen with Stevens and Lee here
on behalf of the applicant 2017 North 6
Street LLC. The applicant is in the
owner of a 0.52 acre track of land
located at 2017 uh North Sixth Street.
Uh as uh Mr. Knight has testified, uh
the property is located in the
commercial general zoning district and
it's currently improved with an existing
convenience store and fueling station uh
which are permitted uses under the
zoning ordinance. Uh the project before
the board uh is a um applicant looking
to redevelop the property. Uh the
current conditions are looking a bit
tired. Uh they were built back in 1965.
Uh so they want to redevelop the
property to construct the new roughly
4,320
ft convenience store. uh remove a
portion of the fueling canopy that's
currently disrupting uh internal access
drives on the property as well as uh
renovate the parking area and internal
drive aisles. Uh the status of the
application uh we submitted the
application to the city of Harrisburg as
a dimensional variance on September 4th,
2025. At the planning commission meeting
on October 1st, the Harrisburg staff
recommended that we seek a special
exception rather than a dimensional
variance. Uh the applicant just wants uh
the board to know that to us um
methodology doesn't really matter. We
regardless whichever relief that the
board sees fit uh we're just looking to
have a bit of a reduction in the general
parking on site. Um but today we're
going to be talking about the special
exception as it relates to section
7-327.8
uh which is the standard set forth for
reduction of on off streetet parking
requirements. Uh with me today is Sean
Hos. He's a professional engineer with
Langan Engineering as well as the
applicant Robbie Singh. Uh he's more
here board has any uh questions about
the business itself or the operations. I
have exhibits to hand out as well.
Uh much of the exhibits that you'll find
in these binders are similar or the same
exhibits as the ones that were admitted
by attorney Posh. Um to get started,
Sean, could you please introduce
yourself?
>> Uh yeah, my name is uh Sean Hos. I am uh
employed with Lang ing our home office
or my home office is in Doylestown, PA
located at 2700 Kelly Road, Sweet 200.
Uh, Warington, PA is the actual address.
Um, I'm a senior project manager with
the firm. I've been there for not quite
15 years and I and I head our site civil
department out at that office. Um,
general responsibility is I oversee our
site civil team. Um, including the
design and management of a whole facet
of different projects which includes
numerous convenience stores in
Pennsylvania. Are you a licensed
engineer in Pennsylvania?
>> Uh yes, I'm a licensed uh professional
engineer in PA and I'm also a certified
professional in erosion.
>> Are you familiar with the site and
surrounding area?
>> Uh yes, I am.
>> And if we turn to applicant exhibit A1,
uh can you tell me what this is?
>> So this is the uh cover letter for our
zoning.
>> Okay. And the entire exhibit is the
actual application itself as well as the
narrative attachment. Is that correct?
>> That is correct.
>> And are you familiar with the city of
Harrisburg zoning ordinance?
>> Uh yes, I am.
>> Are you familiar with the needs of the
applicant in developing the property?
>> Yes.
>> And if you turn to exhibit A2, can you
uh tell the board what that is?
>> Uh so this is a deed for the property
>> and the ownership is vested in 2017
North Sixth Street. Is that correct?
>> That is correct.
>> And then if we can move to exhibit A3.
Is this the concept plan that was
submitted with the application?
>> Uh yes, it is. It's the it's a concept
plan uh prepared directly with my
oversight and by my team last dated June
13th of this year.
>> And does it show both the existing
conditions as well as the proposed
project plan?
>> It does. Um in the forefront is the
proposed plan which is the 4300 4320
foot building with the u associated
curbing and striping adjustments to u
the parking that we have currently
proposed with the driveway adjustments.
In the background you can see the
existing building, the existing fuel
canopy and the existing curving
driveways.
>> Can you just briefly discuss the
existing conditions of how the site
looks today?
And uh for the folks in the audience, we
also have uh the exhibit A3 over there
to the left. Um so I can show that. But
um generally just to orient everybody to
the plan. So uh north is at a slight
skew. Um but generally to the the top of
the plan, to the north we have Mccclelay
Street, to the west we have North Sixth
Street, to the right we have Wall
Street, and then to the south of the
property we have commercial uses. Um the
site as as Jay previously mentioned the
site's located in the commercial general
zoning district. Um it's also generally
surrounded by other commercial res
>> and the parking numbers of the existing
uh building and site those are more
approximate. Can you tell me why?
>> Yeah, so it's more approximate and we do
have a survey for the site but we also
have you know aerial aerial photography.
We've also stopped by a few times.
Generally, you know, the the site's in
need of a of a, you know, a bit of a
uplift here. Um, reason being the
striping isn't really existent on site
anymore. So, there's some striped out
spaces immediately adjacent to the
existing building, but largely it's a
paved open corridor um with limited
signing strip or kind of anything to
help you maneuver throughout the site.
We do approximate the parking spaces as
20. That's utilizing all space available
and it also includes the eight fuel
stations at each one of the gas.
>> And that that number 20, that's if
everyone parks in a very organized
fashion. Correct.
>> That's that's correct. And it does
include the the eight fueling stations
as well. I mean, right right now as it
is, it's more of a a free for all on the
property.
>> If we flip over to exhibit A4, can you
just tell us what this exhibit is?
Yeah. So, as I mentioned, um, A4 is is
generally some of those site photos
either taken from Google Street View or
or an aerial photo of the site, but it
confirms the the notes that I said
there. I mean, you can see the existing
building. You see the the fueling canopy
and the stations there. Some of the
other site improvements associated with
the convenience use. You see both of the
existing curb cuts and driveways off of
Mcclelay Street and North Sixth Street.
And um to the east or on the middle
photo on exhibit A4, you can see the
vacant property uh along the street.
>> And that that vacant property is where
the new building is going to be.
>> Yes.
>> So talking about the new building, we'll
go back to exhibit A3 here. Can you
discuss the proposed modifications of
the building or of the property? Yeah,
absolutely. So, once again, the the
general idea is just to bring this this
site up to modern standards. Um, part of
that is is proposing a slightly larger
building that can provide, you know,
additional services or just more square
footage for the retail use. But, um,
with the property, so the property
already includes the the vacant area
along the Clay Street. So, what we're
proposing is to utilize that area for
the development of the building. We're
proposing a 4320t
building. It's roughly 48 by 90 if you
want to think of it in that dimension.
But we're taking the building off of the
southern property line, rotating it, and
aligning it to the eastern property line
um with that. And as as mentioned
previously um by Mr. Knight, the there
was two driveways off of North Sixth
Street. We're consolidating those into
one driveway, slightly larger width. Um
we have two driveways off of North Sixth
Street. Those are being shifted uh
slightly. The the western those
driveways being shifted to provide a
greater distance off of the intersection
with North Sixth Street meeting um
township ordinance for center to center
offsite offsite offset from North Sixth
Street. U but we're we're maintaining
those two driveways. And basically by
having that configuration where we have
a shared driveway off of North Sixth
Street and two driveways off of
Mccclelay Street, we can propose two-way
circulation throughout throughout the
site. There's no dead-end parking.
There's full access to the canopies. If
you have a gas um if your gas connection
for your vehicle is on an opposing side,
you know, you can still swing around and
get there without having complications
with traffic backing up or anything like
that. But ultimately, you know, with
this, we're also proposing to delineate
those parking spaces. So, we have 31
parking spaces, which is, you know, I
guess with the the general statement
that we have 20 in the existing
condition, we're we're increasing it by
11. Um, you know, based on our
experience with convenience stores, we
think that's plenty suitable for this
type of use. We're meeting ADA standards
by proposing two ADA spaces against the
building and also relocating and
enhancing the trash enclosure that's
there as well.
>> And just two points of clarification,
this is an entirely new building. It's
not an addition to the existing
building. Is that correct?
>> That's correct. The existing building
will be demolished as part of this.
>> Okay. And then the the other point too u
with regards to the access points um the
applicant is expanding the one driveway
on Mlay Street or sorry North Sixth
Street uh but removing the other one.
Correct.
>> That's correct. And um the driveway
that's being removed is the driveway
closer to the intersection
>> and the the area of the proposed
building that was already impervious
coverage.
>> Yeah. compacted gravel and that can be
seen on exhibit A4. But yeah, the site
as it stands is almost entirely
impervious coverage.
>> Okay. So, we're not really adding or if
we are adding any, we're not adding very
much impervious coverage to the site.
>> Okay. Uh let's move on to the actual
relief that we're here for today. Uh now
that we have a general background of the
project, uh so we are seeking a special
exception pursuant to section 7327.8.
which is the reduction in off streetet
parking requirements. Are you familiar
with that section?
>> Uh yes, I am.
>> Is it your understanding that this
section allows for a reduction in off
streetet parking if some of the criteria
listed there can be met?
>> Uh yes, it can be at the discretion of
the zoning hearing.
>> Okay. So, let's go through some of the
criteria that we found applicable as
well as what uh Mr. Knight found
applicable as well. Uh so, and we'll
keep this brief since Mr. Knight had
already testified on some of this. So,
adequate commercial or public parking is
available in the vicinity. Is that
correct?
>> Uh yes, on street parking is available
in the general vicinity of the site um
including locations within about one or
two blocks
>> and you testified that you you believe
in your professional opinion that 31
spaces are sufficient. Can you just
explain as to why?
>> Yeah, absolutely. It's a it's the nature
of the use. So, I mean it's a
convenience store. It's not a it's not a
retail store or grocery store or
something like that. The idea is to get
in, get what you need, get out or stop
at the fueling station, maybe you go in
the store from there and then get out.
So, it's it's short-term parking,
frequent customer turnover. Um, you
know, for both the the convenience store
use and the fueling stations.
>> And then if we flip to exhibit A5, uh,
which is the report from the, uh,
this is the planning borrow burrow's
case report. Uh did the staff in the
bureau uh provide comments regarding
this criteria?
>> Uh yes they did.
>> And what was their comment?
>> Uh generally they believe that we we
satisfy the the various criteria.
>> Okay. And then 7-327.8
parenthesis 2. Uh this is public
transportation services deemed adequate
to uh the needs for such use. Um can you
describe whether or not you believe the
applicant meets this criterion?
>> Yeah. So, uh, to my to my knowledge,
there's multiple bus routes in the area
along both streets. Um, there's also a
bus stop immediately against North Sixth
Street on the west side of the property.
>> And although bus stops uh, doesn't seem
very useful for a gas station, this is
also a convenience store and people can
go inside and buy merchandise. Is that
correct?
>> Absolutely.
>> And then for the other three, uh,
7-327.8
3 through five. U generally uh do you
believe this criteria is applicable to
the project?
>> Uh no. Uh the use does not have multiple
tenants. So it's a one tenant convenient
store with fueling use. Uh nor does it
have a need for mass transit other than
you know folks coming stopping by
quickly for uh for the use.
>> Okay. And as stated does pursuant to
section 7-327.8
Does the applicant have to satisfy all
of the criteria listed there?
>> So, moving on to the general special
exception requirements and these are
found in 7-323.6B
parenthesis 1. Um,
are you familiar with this uh special
exception regulations in the ordinance?
>> Uh, yes. So the first one is such use
will not clearly be in conflict with the
other city ordinances or state or
federal laws or regulations. Uh the use
of the convenience store and fueling
stations is permitted in this district.
Is that correct?
>> Yes, it is.
>> Uh will we will the applicant be
compliant with all city, state and
federal laws?
>> Uh that that is our intent. Yes.
>> So generally you believe we satisfy the
standard.
uh for parentheses B. Uh such use will
be will include proper traffic and
egress to the property uh with
particular attention paid to vehicle and
pedestrian safety and will involve
proper access for emergency vehicles.
Are you familiar with this ordinance
standard?
>> Yes.
>> Is the applicant providing changes to
the overall layout to improve public
safety?
>> Uh yes, we are. As I defined earlier, as
we went over exhibit A3, you know,
generally I think we're enhancing the
property quite a bit by proposing
striped out parking spaces, delineating
drive aisles, meeting the uh width
requirements of the of the ordinance by
um reducing the number of driveway
connections to North Sixth Street and
then also by shifting the western most
driveway the inter
>> and we we you mentioned that the
applicant's also removing a portion of
the canopy. Can you describe how is also
improving safety.
>> Uh yes. So um that canopy column was
essentially connected to the existing
building. If we demo the existing
building, it would be a free floating
column in the middle of a drive aisle.
Obviously not the not the best
situation. So that will be removed.
There'll be a structural analysis
associated with the canopy to make sure
that it stays in in good structural
shape, but by doing so that allowed us
to propose the parking and drive
configuration.
Thank you. And did the staff provide the
Harrisburg planning staff provide a
comment regarding uh whether or not the
project is improving safety?
>> Uh they did.
>> And what was their comment?
>> Um they they believe that the project
represents an improvement for pedestrian
access and
>> that can be found in exhibit A5. Is that
correct?
>> Correct.
>> And did did they also provide any
recommendations regarding access?
>> Uh there were several uh
recommendations. One of them was to
consider removing the western most
proposed curb cut on Mlay Street.
>> And is the applicant considering this?
>> Uh we are considering it. Um we did do
an investigation between our our last uh
representation at the planning
commission and tonight uh has a traffic
engineering team internal to uh to our
team. I met with them earlier today
today to review this. Ultimately, we
think that what we're proposing uh is an
improvement to the condition that's out
there right now. By reviewing the
ordinance section 732710
C, the allowable offset from a from an
intersection measured center to center
is 75 ft. We're showing 85 ft with the
proposed improvement. Um it's a shift of
about 22 feet to the east. We think that
meets the ordinance and and the
requirements associated with this. Um we
did, you know, further review um that
requirement uh versus PA code. Uh I have
an exhibit in front of me. It's it's
chapter 441.9.
Um and it's a driveway layout
illustration. Ultimately, this shows a
curve measurement from North 6 Street to
the curve measurement for the driveway.
If it's 20 ft, that's suitable for PA
code. And we that um almost twofold. But
ultimately, by taking those two
together, we think that one, we're
proposing an improvement to the site,
two, if we blocked off this intersection
would be causing a dead end traffic
pattern. That dead end traffic pattern
plus circulation getting into both sides
of the the fueling pumps. Um once again,
noting that there could be fueling on
each side of the vehicle, meaning you
want to pull in on opposite sides. We
think it's best that this stays open
because if not, I think you're looking
at the potential
that that's conflicts both inside the
property and also external. Correct.
>> Yes.
>> And the the applicant has also looked at
alternatives to this as well. Uh can you
briefly just describe whether or not
those alternatives seem to be more
fruitful than the current design?
>> Yeah, the alternative would be would be
deadend parking. So you close it off,
you create a dead end. Um ultimately
it's going to be more difficult to get
into these fueling stations and that's
where you know cars access the northwest
corner. The parking in the northwest
corner. If they're trying to get there,
but there's a car making a clockwise
movement around the fuel camp. He's
trying to get in the same spot, you
could end up with, you know, those kind
of traffic circulation conflict that I
mentioned previously.
>> And the applicant is still considering
this and investigating the issue.
Correct.
>> Correct.
>> Okay. And will the applicant during the
permitting period be be in contact with
Harrisburg staff uh to discuss the
comment uh the consideration to remove
that curb cut uh and provide them with
our findings.
>> Yes.
>> Okay. So, moving on then to uh
section 7-323.6B
uh parenthesis 3. Uh the applicant shall
show that the use will not create a
significant public safety hazard
including fire, toxic or explosive
hazards. Uh will this use create a
public safety hazard?
>> So, I mean, as mentioned in my previous
testimony, we're proposing new We're not
changing the use, so it's still going to
be a fueling station uh with that
convenience store. The underground
fueling tanks are located to the
southwest of the existing canopy and
those will be remaining as is. Um so do
I believe that this will create a public
safety hazard? No. As the underground
fuel link tanks will stay as is and
they're currently compliant with all
necessary regulations, federal and
state. Um any improvements that we do
make to the site will also
and for parenthesis 4. Uh such use will
not significantly uh negatively affect
the character of an existing residential
neighborhood such as causing substantial
amounts of heavy truck traffic to travel
through a residential neighborhood or a
significant odor or noise nuisance or
very late night early morning hours of
operation. Can you just discuss the uh
whether or not in your opinion you
believe that the proposed changes to the
site will cause any of those issues?
>> Yeah, so it's a very similar statement.
The use isn't changing. We're not
proposing add fueling station. So
ultimately, you know, we have a a
slightly bigger building that we're
proposing, but it's the same use, just a
larger footprint for, you know, more
goods and services. Um, ultimately the
use is surrounded by other commercial
users and that it's been on there since
I believe Mr. Dan mentioned 1965. Um, so
over 50 years. So although the store
size is increasing, we do not expect a
dramatic on the neighborhood or
additional truck traffic. And for the
additional truck traffic, uh the amount
of fueling stations are going to remain
the same. Is that correct?
>> Correct.
>> So, okay. Uh so there's not going to be
more fueling stations since more fuel
trucks having to come and refill the
property.
>> Correct.
>> And overall, would you say that the re
redevelopment will improve the character
of the neighborhood? It may also
encourage further redevelopment in the
area as it's being really a facelift of
one of the properties nearby.
>> Yeah, absolutely. I think enhancing this
building on on a critical corner for the
city is a is a great move and um can
bring in new business.
>> So moving on to parenthesis 5. Uh such
use will involve adequate site design
methods uh including plant screening
walls, fences, BMS, site layout, proper
uh direction and shielding of outdoor
lighting to avoid glare, setbacks of
refuge areas and loading facilities as
well as other setbacks as needed to
avoid significant negative impacts on
adjacent uses. Uh the development of the
site will uh be compliant with all
regulations while we go through the
permitting period. Is that correct?
>> Correct.
>> And one of the conditions uh offered by
the planning uh was for the plantings on
the the small size plantings around the
edges of property. Uh based on your
discussions with the applicant, are they
willing to accept that condition?
>> Yes.
>> Uh parenthesy 6, the applicant shall
show that the use will comply with the
environmental performance standards of
the zoning code as stated in section or
chapter 7-331.
Uh does this does this project comply
with this section?
>> Yes.
>> And is it the same use? It's just
getting a facelift. Exactly.
>> Okay.
>> And then the final one, parenthesy 7,
the applicant shall approve that any de
demolition or negative impacts upon any
buildings with historically significant
architecture on the site have been
reasonably minimized. Uh is there a
historic structure or are there any
historic structures on site?
>> Not to my knowledge. So this section
would not apply to this.
>> Okay. Is it your opinion that the
applicant satisfies the special
exception criteria percent to sections
7-327.8
regarding the reduction off streetet
parking as well as section 7- 323.61B.
>> Yes.
>> Is there anything else you would like to
add?
>> Uh no. I I believe that's a a great
summary of what we're proposing to do
and
>> then the final exhibit, exhibit A6. Uh
this is just the list of all the
neighbors that the mailing was sent out
to. Uh we also have the uh full list of
the letters with the certified mailings
there as well, but I believe you entered
that into the record. Is that correct?
>> We did.
>> Okay. Uh with that, the applicant rest
its case and offers the board the chance
to ask us any questions.
>> Okay. Does the board have any questions
of uh Mr. Hos?
No.
I did
the property in question. I'm very
familiar with that property. Okay.
You're relocating the convenience store
to
right.
You're going to take the fence down
that's fenced off that that area. In
that area, you're going to relocate the
convenience store. Okay. And then what
borders that smallest street. Okay. Will
there be any type of fencing put up at
the back of the convenience store to
Will there be any other type of fencing
or put behind that?
>> I I believe there's fencing there now.
So, that fencing would would stay. Um if
you know additional or upgraded fencing
was a regulation of the city or within
the ordinance, we would certainly intend
to meet that. Um
as we as we uh provided testimony on
earlier, one of the conditions of the
the planning commission was to was to
provide some additional planning. So
we'll also be looking to install those
types of
so you wouldn't see any entry to the
convenience store area from Wallace
Street. You're going to either come up a
clay sheet or off of Six Street to enter
into this.
>> So the the front door will certainly be
internal to the site. So, if you think
of a typical entrance to the building,
it'll be near the the ADA parking spaces
that are on the west side of the
convenience store. Um, at this point, we
we don't have an architectural layout
for the building. So, this was kind of
step one of a multi-step process. Um,
there may may be some level of an access
door off of the east side of the
building. We have we have provided um a
minimum of five feet off of that wall.
Uh, so there is a 5yard front yard
setback. So, we did consider Wall Street
a front yard in terms of meeting that
requirement. I believe the building is a
minimum of I'm looking at our exhibit
A3. It's a minimum of 5.8 ft off of the
right way of street.
Let's talk about security because you're
going to basically relocate the building
for a new it's going to
you're relocated on the property. What
type of security you
security. So I believe
>> I think Robbie might be able to answer
that one a bit better. So you said the
security for the property.
>> Yes, it's a convenience store. So will
there be cameras or will there be any
type of control entry points or
>> let's go one last question. Okay.
Security. Um the pump area. I noticed
you're not relocating the pumps, but the
Okay. The the cutaway for I guess the
refilling of the gas tanks underneath.
You're not changing those. You're not
moving those. But I'm looking at the
parking spots that you designate in your
example. That's pretty darn close
for those parking spots are they not?
>> So we're proposing a minimum drive on
both the west and the south side of the
fueling canopies. So if you look at
exhibit A3, we have shaded boxes at each
one of the the fueling stations, right?
>> Those uh those shaded boxes meet the
minimum length and width requirements
for a parking space. Um so if you take
that part of the space and then offset
it by 20 uh 26 feet, that's the drive
that we're showing ordinance
requirements. Um, in terms of loading,
you know, loading will continue to um be
performed as it is right now. Uh, we
believe that is backing in off of Six
Street into
the southwest corner of the site of that
southwest.
So, I seen your example the new cutaway
from Six Street. Um, and cut
you relocated from where it's at now.
So, right now those fill up the where
the you get this where you basically
your fuel resupply the resupply those
pumps doesn't sit directly there's a
little barricade there I mean there's
little cutaway that you don't drive in
right off the sixth street you have to
pull in and then turn around and your
your supply trucks have to turn around
to the refill pump those those
underground tanks in the cutout
you the it's like It's right over top of
>> Yeah. So, it's it's over over top the
tanks, but it's not over top.
>> Okay.
>> So, there's manholes associated with
that underground tank, and those are in
the open paved area.
>> That's for me. I I asked the question
so many questions that way, but I'm very
familiar with that. I appro
I remember where it was built in 1965.
Okay. So, yes. Well, thank you.
>> Um I had a question for Mr. Knight. Um
if this moves forward, will there be a
land development plan?
>> Um we don't require land development
plan when it's just like the relocation.
Effectively, it's a relocation of a
building on site even though the uh
footprint is expanding. um the actual uh
imperous surface coverage isn't going to
change as part of the expansion because
we consider the compacted gravel to be
an impervious surface for the um point
of calculating um that in the zoning
code.
>> Okay. But either you or the city
engineer will check the flow of traffic
within the site to make sure.
>> Uh yeah, I mean the city engineer uh
will definitely take a look at
especially because there's going to be
impacts to the public right away with
the changes in the curb cuts. He'll take
a look at it, make sure um it conforms
to best practices from an engineering
perspective. And as the applicants
noted, they have relocated um the design
uh the western most curb cut along
Mcclay Street uh further to the east,
which brings it into conformance with
the zoning code um but uh also likely,
you know, brings into more conformance
with engineering standards for something
like that.
>> Okay.
>> And do you have any questions of the two
witnesses?
>> I do not. Uh
>> Attorney Cameron, do you have any
questions?
Okay,
>> go ahead. Sure.
>> Right now, it's
our zod our zoding code says need 58
slots and you've only you've been able
to account for
31 slots which means there's 27 slots.
You should still try 27 slots.
>> Hypothetical.
What if we would say we got those 27
slots or some portion of that? Do you
have an alternative plan?
>> Are you just asking for cut it back to
31 slots and give us the money on that?
But
>> I would say, you know, based So, first
off, based on my experience, I have some
experience with other gas station
companies that I ke that name. But
typically, a building of maybe 6 to
7,000 square feet would have an optimal
parking space of 46. Um, up to that 58
there's a lot more turnover with those
type of you know convenience stores u
with this one ultimately to answer your
question if we had to propose 58 spaces
I don't think we'd be proposing new
buildings so I I think without this
relief the city and the neighboring the
local neighborhoods lose the idea of
upgraded building facility
>> so you're banking on the fact that the
the transient portion of part of
customers coming in and out. They're not
there. They're not there to stay.
They're not there, you know, 15, 20, 25
minutes at the max. So, those parking
spots should be turned over pretty
frequently.
>> And that's your county.
>> And that that's that's exactly right.
That's what we testified to.
>> I'd also like to add um that it was also
that there is adequate off on street
parking as well as the uh public
transportation h although bus stops
aren't going to be the most frequent
customer. Uh there are every so often
someone that's coming in for the
convenience aspect of the store rather
than the
>> I don't think there's any parking
allowed on the clay street between six
and seven street but six street going
down to m Yeah, there's plenty of
parking lots and there's also a lot of
street
>> correct and there and there's parking on
like pepper street which is just a block
to the south as well. So
>> yeah, thank you.
had a um question. So with this uh new
building, is there going to be any
changes to the business in terms of
hours of operation or any other I guess
uh services or functions that are not
currently existing?
>> Stay the same.
>> Does the board um want to take a break
or
[Music]
Okay. All right. Um um Mr. Domen, you
indicated that uh you rest it. So um you
rest your case. Uh your um exhibits will
be admitted into the evidence in this
matter. Um the case is closed for
testimony and the board um could
deliberate or make a motion at this
point in time.
I'd like
to make a motion to approve of the
request case 2615
with the accept with the recommendations
from the planning bureau stated.
>> Second.
>> Moved and second. Is there any
discussion?
All those in favor signify by saying I.
>> I.
>> Okay. Well, congratulations. uh your uh
special exception was granted with the
conditions as set forth uh by the
planning commission uh those four
conditions. Um and Mr. Dorman Dorman um
you'll receive a written decision within
45 days of today's hearing.
>> Thank you very much.
>> Okay. Thank you.
>> Have a nice evening.
Okay.
>> Yeah, you're good.
Not a problem.
>> Let us know when you're ready.
>> Okay.
Okay. Um uh next case on the agenda is
uh 2616.
Uh this is a variance and a special
exception application for the properties
located at 1332
North 2nd Street and 122 Calder Street.
The properties are zoned um residential
medium density. Uh this was an
application filed by Adam Brenamman with
Brenamman Properties LLC to expand the
existing nonconforming multifamily
dwelling use uh on the site by adding uh
eight new units to the five existing
units on site uh by converting space
occupied by a former funeral home. The
applicant is also seeking to utilize
existence existing surface parking lots
uh on the properties as uh as a parking
lot or structure commercial use.
Um
I'm going to mark some exhibits um
in this matter that we received. Uh
board exhibit number one is the uh proof
of publication. The time and place and
particular nature of this matter was
advertised in the Patriot News.
Publication uh occurred on October 5th
and October 12th of 2025.
Board exhibit number two is a letter
dated October 16, 2025
uh from the planning director, Jeffrey
Knight, to the applicant notifying the
applicant of the time and place of the
hearing. Board exhibit number three is
the hearing notice posted upon the
property in question that occurred on
September 25th, 2025. Board exhibit
number four are the notification letters
to required neighbors and the
certificate of mailing. Board exhibit
number five is the application packet
with the attached narrative, photos of
the property, and floor plans for the
proposal.
Board exhibit number six is the
agreement of sale for the property
establishing the applicant standing to
pursue zoning relief this evening. Board
exhibit number seven is the deed to the
property identifying the seller uh in
the B6 agreement of sale as the current
owner of the property. Board exhibit
number eight is the planning bureau case
report. Board exhibit number nine is the
city of Harrisburg planning commission
resolution.
Um,
uh, Jeffrey Knight, uh, the planning
director was previously sworn in and
he'll remain sworn in. Um, I just want
to ask if there's anybody, um, here this
evening in opposition to this
application.
>> I don't know if there's opposition, but
there
>> Okay. Um, we're going to Could you uh
do you Okay. Could you state your name,
please?
>> Sure. My name is Zach Fischer.
>> Okay. And where do you reside in
relation to this project?
>> About half block away. We're we're at
116 Street.
>> Okay. Um,
so there's two ways that you could
participate in this matter. One way is
to participate as a party. Um, and if
you participate as a party, um, you
could, uh, cross-examine any witnesses,
um, and you could present your own
evidence in the case. The other way is,
um, you know, you can make an a
statement towards the end of the case
once the applicant has presented their
case and you could tell the board why
you're in opposition or what your
concerns are.
We would need to make that now.
>> If I decide to be a party, do I have to
ask question?
>> You don't make a decision,
>> right?
>> I'm a party, am I also allowed to make a
statement?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. Um, let's um
>> I also have concerns too.
Okay.
>> Okay. How close are you to the project?
>> I rent spaces in the parking lot at 122
Street as some of the other neighbors do
as well. Questions with the commercial.
>> Okay.
Okay. Okay. We'll get back to both of
you. Okay. All right. Mr. Patrina, do
you want to um um introduce your client
and uh we'll swear your client in?
>> Sure. Yeah. My name is Phil Patrina. Uh
I'm an attorney at McNeallis.
Uh I'm here on behalf of Brenamman
Properties LLC. Uh with me tonight is an
employee of Brenamman Properties. I'll
have him introduce himself. Uh Michael
White, owners rep for Brenamman
Properties project in general.
Okay. Um, Mr. White, um, we're going to
swear you in. Do you swear or affirm
that the testimony you're about to give
before the board is the truth and
nothing but the truth?
>> I do.
>> Okay. And, uh, Mr. Patrina, um,
we had um, Zach Zach Fischer here who
indicated that he resides at 116 Cer
Street, wants to be a party to this
action. Do you have any objection?
>> I have no objection to that. No. Okay.
And then the same with Betsy Dunn
located I'm sorry.
>> Spell your last name for the record.
>> Du M.
>> Du M.
And uh you uh you reside or you own
property at 113 Cer Street?
>> Yes. Okay. Do you have any objection to
this individual?
>> No objection.
>> Okay. So, they'll be identified or
recognized as parties to this action.
Um, uh, Ms. Dunn and, um, Mr. Fiser,
could you raise your right hands? Do you
swear or affirm that the testimony
you'll give, uh, during these
proceedings will be the truth and
nothing but the truth?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. Um, Mr. Knight, do you want to
give an overview of this project?
>> Uh, sure. So uh the issues um involved
in case 2616
uh for 1332 North Second Street and 122
CER Street uh are a variance in a
special exception. Uh the special
exception uh is to expand existing
non-conforming use which is the multif
family dwelling as there are five uh
existing units on the upper floors of
the uh building. Uh and the applicants
are proposing to um establish eight
units on the first floor in the area of
the buildings uh the building that was
formerly occupied by a funeral home. Um
and uh then the the variance aspect uh
is um for use of the remaining spaces uh
in the surface parking lots that will
not be dedicated to uh the required off-
streetet parking for the residents uh
the current residents and proposed
residents um to be utilized as
commercial park as a commercial parking
lot. Um and the board will probably
remember uh they received um a similar
proposal several months ago um for uh
just the use of the parking lots as um
commercial parking lots. Um and uh so
this uh proposal is a bit different in
that um you know I think there was some
expressed concern from the board members
at the last meeting about well we don't
know what's going to go into the
remaining uh space in the existing
building and therefore what the off-
streetet parking requirements would be.
If it were something for example like a
convenience store like they like was
just reviewed. the off- streetet parking
requirements would be fairly um uh
ownorous on that regard or even like a
restaurant which might be two viable
uses for uh that space. Um in which case
more of the existing parking in the two
lots would be required for that proposed
use. Now that uh the um prospective
owners of the uh site um have identified
a use and are proposing that use um the
off street parking requirements for the
full building will be known uh now and
um it will be total of uh 15 units
believe and um
sorry a total of 16 units uh which would
leave between the existing accessory lot
at 1332 North Second Street and 122 CER
street remaining 30 spaces. Um and so uh
the applicants are requesting a variance
to utilize those spaces um as a uh
commercial parking lot to lease to
surrounding residents or um perhaps
employees of local businesses. Um and uh
in looking at the multif family dwelling
aspect um again as noted there is
existing uh multif family dwelling use
five units on site. Uh the applicants
have provided a uh site plan of the uh
or a floor plan of the proposed building
and how those units will be laid out. Um
to the uh bureau's knowledge um the
existing um tenants have not created uh
issues for the neighborhood and
therefore it's likely the uh proposed
units would have a similar impact um
with respect to uh the primary impact uh
off street or the parking demand
generated by whatever use is in that
building. Um this is a unique situation
where the applicants can actually
provide all the parking um on site uh
and in fact have a um you know a
surfitit of parking such that there's
going to be about twothirds of those
spaces will not be required for the use.
Uh it should also be noted uh that given
the area of the property uh the
applicants would be permitted to have up
to 14 apartment units on site without uh
requiring any zoning relief. They're
requesting a total of 13. So they are
within the uh density regulations um of
the zoning code. Uh with all of that
being said, uh the planning commission
has recommended the zoning hearing board
approve the request for the with the
following conditions. If granted zoning
approval to move forward with the
project as proposed, the applicant must
submit a land development plan for the
establishment of 13 residential units on
site. Um and the applicant has uh
provided that documentation uh to the
planning bureau. Uh any existing or any
exterior alterations to the property
must be submitted for review by the
city's historic preservation specialist
and may require harb approval of a
certificate of appropriateness
application. Uh the applicant must
remove the ballards from the sidewalk
along Walton along the Lton Street
frontage of 122 Calder Street and
reconstruct the sidewalk at that
location to allow safe pedestrian
passage. And if you've been out there,
there's just two or three concrete
ballers there. A couple of them seem to
have been knocked over and kind of
damaged the sidewalk at the same time.
But those ballards are located in the
middle of the sidewalk. So, we're
requesting those be removed and the
sidewalk be reconstructed. Uh then
finally, the planning bureau recommends
the applicant identify a method of
controlling access to the lots either
through automated keyed entry gates or
through on-site management of the lots
to prevent unauthorized access and
ensure spaces are available for the
principal users of the lot, the
residents of the multif family dwelling
use. Uh the planning commission has
recommended that the zoning hearing
board approved the request for the
following reasons.
The proposed expansion of the multif
family dwelling use from 5 to 13 units
represents a reasonable proposal for
reuse of the former funeral home space
on the first floor is less likely to
have is likely to have less impacts than
other potential uses for the space such
as a convenience store or restaurant and
will provide new housing units to
address the need evident in the city
generally and the neighborhood
specifically. Uh with respect to the
proposed parking lot or structure or
commercial aspect of the proposal, the
planning bureau notes it does not
require zoning relief for any proposed
development or use but rather who would
be using uh the existing parking spaces
u and thus represents a deminous
deminimous deviation from the zoning
regulations which meets the applicable
criteria in the zoning code. Uh three,
while surface parking lots are generally
not advisable from a planning
perspective as they represent an
underutilization of valuable urban land
and create impacts such as storm water
and runoff and urban heat island effect,
in this instance, it is reasonable to
maximize the utility of spaces in an
existing lot by leasing parking to local
residents. And finally, reuse of the
property to accommodate parking demand
created by residents and businesses of
the surrounding neighborhood can provide
benefits by reducing on street parking
near intersections in crosswalks and on
vacant lots. and can provide secured
parking for those residents wishing to
sign leases and can be designed to
incorporate elements such as landscape
screening that improve the aesthetics of
the property.
>> Okay. Thank you, Mr. Knight. Uh Mr.
Patrina, do you want to proceed?
>> Yeah, sure. Just a short presentation
and then we're here to answer any
questions that the board may have and
some of the other residents. So, I'm
just going to pass out a few exhibits
here.
Demonstrate where the property is and
what it existing conditions are.
Okay. So, generally uh we concur with
Mr. Knight's report uh and the the
conditions that he suggested for this
application. Um so I'll keep the
presentation um brief tonight uh in the
interest of of time but did want to
address uh you know some of the the
basic elements of of this project and uh
what Brenamman Property seeks to do with
it. So the property is located at 1332
North Second Street uh and also as part
of this property sale is a parking lot
across the street from it 122 CER
Street. Uh so there's a larger parking
lot that's connected to the building uh
that was used by the funeral home and
then across Cer Street is a smaller lot
that was also uh owned by Bitner
Reynolds, the prior owner of the of the
property. And so this entire property is
located within the RM district uh the
city's old uptown historic district. Uh,
and it's along a prominent stretch of of
North Second Street in the uptown
neighborhood. Uh, it's surrounded on all
four sides by the RM district and
there's a mix of residential and
commercial buildings and offices uh, in
the in the area as well. So, Brenamman
Properties has entered into an agreement
of sale as I just mentioned uh, to
purchase this from Bitner Reynolds LLC
uh, doing business as the New Meer
Funeral Home. Uh the funeral home in
recent years has sort of fallen into
uh you know a state of non-use uh
unfortunately and um so that led to uh
the Hedrickk Bitner family funeral homes
listing this property for sale um
because it just wasn't being used as
much as it once was. Uh so the property
currently contains five multif family
dwelling units on the top two floors and
with the existing funeral home on the
first floor which has been in continuous
operation albeit a declining uh business
uh since you know at least the 1950s but
perhaps even longer. Uh so tonight,
Renamman Properties is here to request a
special exception to permit uh an
additional eight multifamily dwelling
units on the first floor of the building
uh pursuant to section 7-309.2V
of the zoning ordinance. Um,
as mentioned, the property has current
access to the large lot attached to the
building, which is 35 off- streetet
parking spaces. And then there's an
additional 11 off- streetet parking
spaces located at 122 CER Street. So,
that brings the total parking for this
um property up to 46 off- streetet
parking spaces. The zoning ordinance for
a uh for a multifamily dwelling would
only require 16 off- streetet parking
spaces. So that leaves Brenamman
properties with an additional 30 off-
streetet parking spaces uh that it has
nothing to do with um you know with this
existing large parking lot that was
previously used for funeral home. Uh so
that's what led then to the second
request which is a variance from section
7-305.7
to permit the commercial leasing of 30
off streetet parking spaces uh at the
parking lot. And so with that background
of the project, I'll go ahead and call
my first uh and only witness tonight and
then uh we'll walk through some of these
exhibits and then uh we'll turn it back
over for questions. Um so Mike, if you
could Please turn to the first exhibit.
Uh is that an aerial image in front of
you of the property uh and its existing
conditions as it sits today?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. Can you please use this first
exhibit uh to orient the board as to
where the property is located uh within
the city?
>> Yeah. So we have um North Second Street
here.
propert
sale there and it's on the south side by
>> Okay, we'll move to admit that uh
exhibit as applicants exhibit A1.
>> Okay,
>> it'll be admitted.
>> Thank you.
>> Thanks.
>> Okay, so Mike, just flip through the
next set of pictures. that's in front of
you and and for the board. Um
are these next set of photos uh do they
generally depict although they were
taken from Google in 2022 they generally
depict the existing conditions of the
property as they exist today at the
parking lot?
>> Yes. Yes.
>> We have you want me to go through these?
>> Uh we can just flip through them. I just
really wanted the board to have them so
that they could see what we're looking
at. This looks to me to be the the
current condition building.
>> So, we'll move to admit the existing
conditions photos as applicants. Exhibit
A2.
>> Um, and these are particularly helpful
for the board if they might have
questions uh about the parking lot.
There are some images in there of the
entirety of the of both lots for this
property as well. So, uh, we'll just
discuss the relief requested by this
application. So, uh, Mr. White, pursuant
to section 7-305.7
of the zoning ordinance, multif family
dwellings are permitted by special
exception in the RM zoning district. Are
you familiar with those requirements of
the zoning ordinance?
>> Yes.
>> Okay.
Sections 7 uh-309.2V
2 and uh 7-323.6
of the zoning ordinance. They provide
specific and general criteria for the
board to consider in permitting multif
family dwellings in the RM district. Are
you also familiar with those criteria?
>> Uh yes.
>> Did you review the narrative submitted
in support of this application?
>> Uh yes I did.
>> Okay. And do you adopt the statements
made in that narrative as to why your
proposed use of the property complies
with all of the special exception
criteria of sections 7-305.7
and 7-309.2V?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. And were you present earlier for
uh Mr. Knight's testimony in the reading
of his zoning bureau zoning report?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. To the extent applicable, do you
agree with the comments and statements
that Mr. night made uh and the planning
bureau's report as to why your proposed
use of the property for eight additional
multif family dwellings complies with
the special exception criteria of the
zoning ordinance.
>> Yes, I do.
>> Okay. Is it true that the proposed use
would allow for um would allow for a
total of 13 multifamily dwelling units
at the property?
>> That is correct.
>> Okay. And so that's the eight additional
that are proposed plus the five on the
top floor.
>> Yep.
>> And is it also true that under section
7-307.3A
of the zoning ordinance uh that you
would be permitted a density of 14
dwelling lot dwelling units on a lot of
this size which is approximately 20,98
square feet.
>> Yes, that is accurate.
Uh
okay. So the proposed dwelling density
then just for clarity is less than what
the zoning ord would permit. Yes by one.
>> Okay.
>> Um Mike let's discuss a little bit about
the floor plan. If you could um tell the
board what are the unit mixes of the of
these um dwelling units and what will
they look like?
>> Okay. So the existing five units are a
mix of three, two and one bedroom units
and they are on the the second and third
floors. Um the current uh funeral home
space uh spans the entire uh above grade
floor plan or uh footprint of the
building. Um and we are going to provide
on that space or convert to eight units
as was stated.
will be a mix of one and two bedroom
units specifically to seven oneb units
one two bedroom um we uh we want the
units to be um affordable um so we're
trying to strike a uh a middle ground
with our our level of finish um so that
to
>> Okay. And by affordable, will you be
applying for formal tax credits for this
property or just generally the goal here
is to have market rate apartments that
are generally accessible and and
affordable for people in the
neighborhood.
>> Yeah, I would Yeah, that's correct. I
would say we're not we're not going to
be applying for any any tax credits or
they'll be designated as affordable, but
it would just be in line with the
development that we've done so farms.
>> Okay.
Uh are you proposing any exterior
renovations to the exterior facade of
the building?
>> Uh not at this time.
>> Okay. And to the extent that any
exterior changes are made, do you agree
to obtain HARB approval for those
changes?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. Um
so ne next we'll discuss a little bit
about the variance request for the
commercial leasing of the parking
spaces. Uh so the the second request for
relief was pursuant to 7-305.7
of the zoning ordinance and as I
previously mentioned it's to permit the
commercial use of 30 off- streetet
parking spaces at the property. Um Mike
could you tell me is it accurate that
you only need 16 off- streetet parking
spaces for this multifamily dwelling
building?
>> That is correct.
>> Okay.
Um,
do these 46 off- streetet parking spaces
at the property uh do they pre-existan
properties interest in the property?
>> Uh, yes.
>> Okay. So, the parking spaces are already
paved and have been for several decades.
>> Yeah,
>> um Okay. Okay. And so if the variance
requested for the parking lot is not
granted, what will you do with the
additional 30 off streetet parking
spaces?
>> Uh we we do not have an alternative use
for the for the parking spaces. So at
this point, we would do uh nothing other
than to attempt to secure the lot. We
don't have a proposed alternative.
>> Okay. And so is it accurate to say that
this large parking lot and additional
spaces present an unnecessary hardship
to your full use uh of of the property
as it sits today?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. And so if the requested variance
is permitted uh for the commercial
leasing of of the parking lot, um who do
you plan to lease these spots to?
>> Uh to the neighbors in the community.
So, anybody that would need access to
parking um in the community that would
benefit from
>> Okay. And do you intend to control and
monitor who accesses the parking lot
with parking placards and parking permit
only signs? Yeah, I would say in this
particular um area we're we're expert in
that um the property will be managed by
Midtown Property Management um who
is responsible for the management of
many parking lots in in the area and has
systems in place to make sure that it's
done uh you know safely and correctly.
>> Okay. And will that also include
security cameras in the parking lot that
will be monitored by Midtown Property
Management?
>> Yes, that is part of the project.
Um, in your opinion, is this the minimum
variance necessary to afford relief to
Brenamman properties um to provide a a
reasonable parking solution and reuse of
this property?
>> Yeah, absolutely. We spent a lot of time
thinking about land use and the best um
use of of available land and this is the
only thing
with the
>> Okay. And are you familiar with the
non-competing parking area of the city
that was defined in the PEDFA
intergovernmental cooperation agreement?
Uh it was dated December 2013. Are you
familiar with that area?
>> Yes, I am.
>> Okay. And is this parking lot within the
city's non-competing parking area is
designated by that December 2013
agreement?
>> No.
>> Okay.
Uh I I think you may have answered this
earlier but wanted to cover it again um
just in case. Did you review the
application and the narrative um in
support of this variance request?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. And to the extent applicable, do
you adopt the comments made therein as
your own?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. So uh in conclusion, Brenamman
Properties uh has satisfied its burden
for a special exception to permit eight
multifamily dwellings at the property
and has established uh it has has
established its burden for a variance to
permit commercial leasing of the 30
extra parking spaces at this lot. And so
we would respectfully request that the
zoning hearing board approve the relief
requested by this application subject to
the conditions in Mr. Knight's bureau
report. Um, with that, I'll turn it over
to the board for questions. Uh, and, you
know, we're also here, of course, to
answer any questions that any of the
residents might have, uh, and some of
the, you know, concerns and how we may
be able to alleviate those.
>> Okay, let's go to the let's go to the
parties. Uh, Mr. Fischer, do you have
any questions of Mr. White?
>> Uh, yeah, couple. Um first um I just
wanted to see if I understand something
correctly with the variance request to
the additional parking spaces for
commercial use. Um that those parking
spots are currently being so is the
current use notant.
>> Can I answer? Yeah. the um the only so
the only leases that we are aware of
just as part of the process of of
purchasing the property is the leases
for Calder Street um and then the
utilization of the the current tenants
on the main building up top and the five
units that they are using the parking um
we any existing leases um we would like
to renew and continue. So we don't plan
to um to cancel any existing leases.
It's actually a benefit and it's
something that we would like to see
continue and they've been uh disclosed
to us or at least the ones on call
street. So
>> So this is the variance is is for
street park. Is that correct?
>> It's for the entirety of the of the
property that's being purchased. So, the
the property being purchased is that
Second Street lot and the Cder Street
lot. Um, but as Mr. White stated, the
underlying leases at Cer Street will
remain in in place uh and and roll over
to the new uh property owner is is going
to be brand new properties. The intent
is to honor the existing agreements and
maintain
notreas.
>> Yes. Yeah, that is the intent. And then
to get we're seeking permission to be
able to lease the unused spaces beyond
the requirement for the addition.
>> Can we talk a little bit about site
improvements? Um my understanding from
Mr.
testimony that the only site
improvements being proposed right now
are the removal of concrete
that correct?
>> Yes. Yeah, that's what Mr. Knight had um
asked as part of his statement and we
had agreed in planning commission.
>> Are you familiar with any uh
deteriorating
on that street parking lot by any
chance?
>> Um other than what he stated? Um no, I'm
not. But we part of our um site
development in general. We're going to,
you know, want to invest in the lot um
on CER and on Second Street.
>> There are some concerns with the
conditions of the street
particular
that's for
that come up. Do you have any intent to
address those those conditions?
>> Oh, absolutely. Yeah. Yeah. I would
actually would love
they could be identified. We would love
to to know their location and and from a
safety standpoint and just from a you
know operation standpoint of the of the
new um units, we'd want the lots to be
as safe and frankly like immaculate as
possible. But right now they're they
seem to be kind of underutilized and and
not taken care of. And we're hoping to
just make the entire site um you know as
as attractive as possible.
>> I guess we're trying to make it as truck
as possible, but there's no intent to
upgrade any of the barriers or gates or
anything like that at this point.
>> Uh well, we haven't um progressed that
far in terms of our development plan. I
think that um once we do get approval um
if we do get approval uh to lease the
additional parking spaces, then there's
also a a land development application
that will deal with more site plan
issues. And then as part of that process
and and then even getting into access to
the apartments themselves, if we have
the ground floor units, there's going to
be access questions and just a lot of
different um details that go into the
way that the site will work. So I am,
you know, expecting that we're going to
have to to make significant improvements
to to the site and the exterior parking
once we get
the other
This is changing subjects a little bit.
The other the other concern that we have
is, you know, one of the one of the nice
things about being on street is that
it's has just been a really
well-maintained block for the 140 years
that the homes have been there. And when
we've had issues um in the past with
keeping the area, you know, neat and
clean, it's been with some of the
renters that are in the area. Um,
>> can you talk a little bit about what the
proposed options are for refuge
collection for the additional eight
units?
>> Uh, I would say as part of it, I I know
that currently there isn't a management
structure in place for the rentals that
exist. And I would say it's part of uh
our management structure that we would
bring in via, you know, Midtown property
management is there's going to be uh
regular environmental checks. Um, and I
just know from, you know, working at
Midtown Property Management and our
existing, you know, properties that we
would plan to be handling any, you know,
refues on the street. Um, plowing and
just general site maintenance is like a
big part of of how we would operate that
doesn't currently exist on the site
because the rentals are not a priority.
>> Sure. I think I think you know with what
we've seen,
you know, with in particular, there's
historical issues with refuge collection
with trash not making it into the proper
disposal bins and when we requested
site visit to address these issues has
been slow and fast issues taken care of.
>> Um so then when we hear that there's an
additional eight units being proposed
when we're already having issues with
refues and there's no additional plans
uh being presented to address that it's
a bit of a concern for us. I know we've
had issues more recently with uh rodents
and other pests making their way into
our backyards because of this issue.
>> Um so I mean I would I would propose
that if you guys uh would like to move
forward with that. I would recommend uh
having a dedicated refuge collection
agency coming in maybe putting in a
dumpster enclosure with the dumpster
of those additional so that
centered and that is that's entirely in
your property and under management as
opposed to um
having all the trash bins out which is
an eyesore as well as some concerns with
dispos.
>> Okay. Yeah. I think that um I can only
speak to just the way that we've
operated in other situations and that um
and that just my experience um working
with the seller and that that I
we it's something that we really care
about in terms of site quality and and
refu pickup and that you know we're
absolutely want to do a better job then
maybe prior you know ownership or
management has and and that I'm glad
that you know you were here to express
the concerns so that we know it's a
particular priority you know if and when
we are able to to convert um and have
eight more units there that um that we
can make it better despite the increase.
>> So I mean
If I'm understanding you correctly, you
are not going to be responsible for the
site management itself. You are going to
be contracting with top property to to
do the site management or is that
something that's still staying
underneath
properties?
>> It's going to be so Midtown Property
Management manages all of Brandon
Properties holdings. Um so and it's not
a um I hang my license at Midtown
Property, you know, so it's a very close
relationship. We're a very active uh I
would say maybe we are the most active
ownership group that they help. Um so
it's not um I'm local so it's not a
distant you know owner that isn't
involved um and actively engaged with uh
the property. Uh we speak with Midtown
property management every single day
about our properties and um you know the
quality of the exteriors, interiors,
leasing. So it's it's more of like it
more like it increases our ability to
make the site uh higher quality as
opposed to a um a situation where we
only with uh obviously without Midtown
be less resources. We have less
resources available. So they kind of
increase our ability to
>> So if I have an issue though, am I
reaching out to you directly or am I
supposed to reach out to Midtown?
>> I would um you can reach out to since
we're talking right now, I say you can
reach out to me directly um and then I
would likely Midtown myself to say,
"Hey, here's the feedback that I'm
getting. Um, I'd like to work on this
together. What's the best way to make
sure that this is better than the
current situation?"
>> Yeah. Yeah. I would be happy to share
Yeah. I'd be happy to share my contact
information. Um, and uh, you know,
gladly address any and all concerns, you
know, by neighbors.
>> Thank you.
Okay. Wait. Okay. So, um, Miss Dunn, do
you have any questions?
>> Go ahead.
>> Many of the neighbors have questioned,
"Are we going to lose our parking
spaces?"
From what I understand, you said that no
neighbors who rent spaces at 122 culture
will remain in that lot.
>> Yes. Yeah. We have no plans at all to
cancel existing uh parking leases and um
had hoped to renew them to the extent
that they're turned out.
Thank you.
>> It's actually good for us to hear that
they're in demand, you know, that
they're valued and the neighbors want to
continue to use.
>> Uh does anybody from the board have any
questions of this witness?
>> Uh good evening. A number of questions.
Um
so if we go back through some of the the
things related to the details related to
parking. So um the CER street property
right is 11 spaces currently. Is that
correct?
>> Yes.
>> Okay.
And how many spaces are currently um at
the at 1332 North Second Street?
>> 35.
>> 35.
Okay.
And
I can see this from the the agreement
with sale, but these are two separate
parcels, correct? That are being
purchased.
>> Yep.
>> Just at one time.
>> Okay.
>> Um,
so I I guess I kind of have a a question
or maybe a point of clarification.
So
the statement about the hardship not
being created, right? it. I guess I'm a
little lost in that because if you look
at the original property, right, 35 and
122 CR Street equaling the 46, the
problem is being created because we're
looking at these two individual parcels
together. Because if you take away,
right, the the 11 spaces, you have 35,
then there's a significant uh less
excess that would be had for the total
parking. I mean for the parking I'm
sorry at the current I mean at 1332
North Second Street. So I I guess I'm I
question or maybe I need to understand
better how is how should we view that
type of situation if we're talking about
two separate parcels that are being
looked at together.
If I don't know who that question goes
to
>> are you asking the solicitor or I mean I
can we can both
the the opportunity presented to us in
terms of the sale and the way that it
was publicly advertised was um for uh
both parcels to be could be purchased.
Um so I I would also say that even
separate from 122 Calder Street that
given the size of the 1332 North Second
Lot, we would still have significant
additional parking if um all residents
utilize their parking, which we don't
even expect all ress to vehicles. So if
we completely utilize uh the 16 spaces
that would be required if we increase 13
units then we would still have an
additional uh 15 plus parking spaces. Um
and we typically in our experience like
we'll have inherent vacancy uh of around
30%. So I expect that you know we won't
have full utilization of the 16. I think
that even separate from Calder, we'll
still have um a lot of unused land,
unused space.
>> Okay. Okay.
Um question. I don't know what do do you
have uh details on what would be your uh
proposed rates for uh leasing spaces and
what the difference may be between
that your proposed rates and the current
rates.
>> Um
The way that I had run it was that um
gone more conservative and thought that
uh $50
per month as I think is currently the
case. Um I'd have to review the existing
is that that's kind of how we had run
what we would do is it would be around
that around that rate.
>> Okay.
I'll probably have a few more questions,
but I'll turn it over to Mr. Fipps.
Let's since we're in we're into the
parking business here. Um, for those
eight units and for the resident for 13
units that are going to be in the
building,
>> parking will be included in their lease
or they or is that going to be a
separate charge?
>> Included, right?
trash collection. I think we spoken
earlier. This would this property
wouldn't be under a city trash. It would
have to be because it's a multif family
apartment. They have their own trash
collection capabilities or contract out
to someone.
>> Uh I believe I don't have a lot of
expertise on what our trash collection
is, but I would imagine for something
like that they would have a commercial
account that would maybe be that would
be handled by the city. you would not be
handled by like a third party trash
collector.
>> Okay, ping pong. I'm back to parking
again. Keeping my notes,
the lots themselves, uh I look at the
the pictures and there's uh for access
control, I think it's it's gated to a
certain point.
>> Uh yeah, I just I could just refer to
the um the current owner statements that
he had done that because not able to
utilize the parking that he had um and
people were parking there overnight
without permission and he felt that it
was a safety issue that he had said that
he was just putting a a chain across
just to stop uh unpermitted parking
spaces.
>> So since this is all part of that will
you will have an some type of access
control?
>> Yes. For you know either the residents
of the apartments or will the as far as
slots that you're going to write down.
>> Yeah, we would like a system in place um
with placards with uh various forms of
access control, security cameras. We'd
like the people who are permitted to
park there to be identified and we'd
like to put a very like cohesive system
in place. The only people that um are
parking there as opposed to right now
the only people that are parking there
are people who are permitted to park.
And one last question about the rental
for the units. You're going to add eight
units on the first floor.
>> Uh, seven onebedroom and one two
bedrooms.
>> Will they be eight? Will any of those
units be ADA compliant?
>> Uh, yeah, we we plan to develop um that
bottom floor in compliance with all code
regulations. ADA. There's a lot of um
there's a lot of uh there could be
significant exterior access and we would
want to do that up to code and
appropriate
that's something we're investigating
with our
I see one of the requirements from the
planning bureau was that they a land
development plan and
is it work in progress or you already
have it
>> so they they've already submitted a plan
we're awaiting a little bit of
supplemental documentation but at the
moment they're on the November um
planning commission meeting agenda okay
Thank you. That's all questions I have.
>> I just want to I just had one or two
questions.
>> You want me to go?
>> You can go.
>> Okay. Um Mr. White, um right now
Brenamman Properties does not currently
own uh the properties in question. Is
that correct?
>> Yeah, we are under contract without
contingency to close at the end of
November.
Well, your agreement of sale um
I think it has a 75day due diligence
period,
>> right? So
>> that I guess to be specific um that we
fully intend to close and do the project
and it is not contingent upon um
the
receipt of you know we've already had
our inspection and we've gone through
that process and we're fully comfortable
you know with the project and we're
already actively working with our
architect and and planning to to
complete it.
>> Okay.
Okay. And Mr. Patrina, the uh variance
that you're requesting is a use
variance. Would you agree?
>> Uh yes.
>> Okay.
Um
Mr. Hobs, do you have any questions?
>> Oh, yes.
>> I'm sorry.
>> Um yes. So for the your tenants, you
said parking would be included. Are
there is there a maximum I guess that
they would have for parking spaces.
>> Um I it's not something that I had
thought of yet. I think it would be on a
on a case by case uh you know basis. I
think um would be based on unit size and
family size but I think probably to the
zoning code requirements.
>> Thank you.
You mentioned with the units that you
are trying to make them affordable, not
necessarily like the designation of
affordable, but market rate, but still
affordable. Um,
what what does that look like?
>> Um, in general, we aim to provide um new
updated, brand new units, but that we
strike financially for something I think
for the HUD designations what is
affordable based on family size
>> and AMI and uh you know all of our all
of our um rental rates that we're
putting in our performer right now are
very closely due to what is designated
by HUD as affordable though we're not
going to seek any kind of designation or
benefit for it and that's just that's
just been our thesis in terms of how
we've developed um we've primarily
developed um affordable and accessible
the market rate units not have top of
the market units across
>> okay ready thank you um and then I guess
guess Mr. tonight you would be the best
person for this question. I was thinking
earlier about
>> how to pose the question. But so when
we're looking at applications in this
case where there's two separate things
variance and special exception those are
even though this part of one application
aren't those those are two separate
issues. Correct.
>> Correct. I mean you could theoretically
grant one and not grant the other. Um, I
don't think them being combined in
application requires them to be ruled on
together essentially.
>> Mhm. Okay. Um, yeah. I guess I'm just in
my mind trying to wrap around somewhat
of what I asked before about the
hardship. Um because I I guess what I
sense, especially with the current setup
of the building, is that
some of the special exception use could
potentially be causing, I guess, the
hardship that's being notated for the
variance, right? If you're changing the
use of the building, that's what brings
up the point of the the variance itself
as opposed to its current u use and
setup. So I think I I'm just trying to
make sure that I'm viewing that properly
um and understanding
all the parameters attached to the whole
scenario even though these the variance
and the special special exception are
two separate
um issues in the
>> that's a if I could say that's a really
good point um and uh it's something that
we've thought a lot about and I think
that what I would just say is that the
current owner is um ceasing business at
that location because the current use is
in his eyes compared to other options
for his business is no longer feasible.
I would say that we you know via our
relationship with Midtown Property Man,
but we have pretty significant you know
feel for um continuation of a commercial
option in terms of having a feeling for
you know who's looking for space and how
it could be utilized. And we did we did
look deeply into that and we not able we
were not satisfied with our
investigation of like a continuation of
a commercial use that that would be
viable. Um and so you know we we're
changing because we think that that's
what the community needs you know the
most community needs housing and that we
think that in general what is very
valuable to to residents is an
opportunity for for secure parking
especially for buildings and residents
that you know in their building they
don't have access to secure parking and
they have to park on the street
sometimes you know far in our house. Um,
so we definitely had asked, you know,
very same question. Hey, can we can we
continue what would be easiest, right?
Just this is fairly uh in good shape
commercial building. Could we continue
some kind of a commercial use that would
be in concert and we were just not able
to be satisfied with the demand and
thought we'd be, you know, left with a
vacant with a vacant space.
>> Okay.
Um,
well, I'll just so I'll just ask this
then as a followup. What is that
analysis look like? Right. To say that,
you know, you looked at options, you
didn't find anything, I guess, that was
viable or that was appetizing to your
operations, right? What does that
analysis look like and what are
determining factors that you can share
with us to to shed some light on that? I
have I have um just to to get a better
idea to your point um I have a public
listing for rent um on the broadest
circulation commercial leasing site the
one the most right now I've had zero
zero response it's been publicly listed
for a couple months just to get an idea
that would even be possible and I've
been shocked I've had absolutely zero I
think that the current use is a little
um stigmatizing
you know that it's like uh and I I think
I was that would be one way um is that
there was a public uh attempt um that
came up you know hopefully short and
then also just within our network um
when I say we you know as in concert
with Midtown Property Man we do a lot of
commercial leasing too reached out to um
agents that do commercial leasing we
reached out to our entire network in
terms of we have a pretty big uh people
that we can talk to about, you know,
interest and we got absolutely zero
interest. And then another part of it
too is that um that given the pricing of
the building um that we were not able to
get, you know, any interest that would
approach what would be required for us
to to justify the the purchase in a
continuation of that use, especially
because it's it is it is a a clean
building on the interior, but it's not a
very like super modern updated building.
That's the toughest, you know, it's not
modern commercial space. especially in
the city right now is is particularly
challenging.
>> Okay. And what does that when you're in
that period of time, what does the I
guess the the timeline for that
evaluation? Um and I asked this because
this you know the previous application
related to this u property was just
heard by here at the zoning hearing
board on July 21st.
>> Yeah. We were um had first tried to we
were in conversation around that time.
Um had been I think the building had
been listed publicly for up to a year at
that time. So it was something that we
were aware of and had been thinking
about you know long prior even before
getting under contract. You know as part
of the due diligence you're going to
>> to look into you know what the
possibilities are if you do find
yourself under contract so that you're
ready to perform on that contract. And
uh
>> so yeah at that time it was were
considering as soon as I was able to um
publicly investigate that as as somebody
that had equitable title to the property
or was under contract, you know, we did,
I think I just described, like make that
effort. Um and yeah, we just were left
unsatisfied that we could not um
continue a similar type use whether it
be office, you know, retail.
>> Okay. Appreciate that response. And I
just want to make a point. The reason
why I'm drilling on this point um even
and I only bring this up because you
mentioned it is even when
the application related to 1332 North
Second Street came up before about the
use of the property in its current form.
The applicant didn't really specify that
there were issues with the business. It
was just more so it it appeared as if
there just wasn't interest or continuing
to operate that business there. it
didn't seem like there was an actual
detailed or documented um you know
issues with with you utilizing the
property in that current use. So that's
why I'm just making sure I get some some
clarity about that point.
>> Yeah. Yeah. I appreciate it's definitely
a big part of what like I said what we
considered and I I feel very confident
in this like level of investigation that
we were able to put forth to to figure
out whether or not that is uh possible.
So thank you for your question.
>> Thank you. That's all.
>> Okay. Um, we'll get to you in a second.
All right. Um,
do you have follow-up questions or I
think you're you're finished, right? Did
you rest, Mr. Vet?
>> Oh, yeah. We're that's all we had. So,
we're just here for questions at this
point.
>> Okay. And then would you like to present
anything or do you have follow-up
questions from the questions that we had
or follow questions? I'm not excuse me.
I'm not prepared to present.
Okay. Are you going to make like a
closing statement of some sort?
>> Uh
I would like to I would like to further
respond if I could to just just as a if
I could just the statement that just
like separate from the proceedings just
as um somebody uh invested in the
community that like I appreciate you
coming out. I care about this is
probably a little bit of an odd format,
but like I care about your concerns and
just on a person like level I absolutely
want you to be able to be in touch with
me to show me you know the concerns
specifically and um and so that we can
discuss them on site. So like just it's
just from you know one person interested
in the city to another like it matters
to me and and I definitely want to work
on it with you.
>> Okay. I appreciate that. And I don't
think I don't think that there's any,
you know, I don't think there's any
inherent um we're not opposed to having
additional housing.
I mean, I think I think that there are
there are some concerns that affect the
the residents and that's why we wanted
to talk about it. So, I appreciate you
um making that comment and um make
yourself available for any issues that
come up. Um I guess one of the other I
remember correctly you had made a
comment that you weren't intending to do
any exterior alterations to the side of
the building. Is that that correct?
>> I think that it's um that we are going
to likely to um comply with ordinance
and and code and law that that that that
may come up and that we're going to you
know if we from a safety standpoint um
or from a legal what we need to do based
on our our layout or what is you know
required uh we will do but it's still
it's still ongoing.
>> Is it fair to say that it's not that
you're you're saying you're not going to
do exterior updates but that that is uh
you're not at a position to to speak on
that at this point
>> in specifics. Yeah, we don't have plans
right now but that it's something that
you know given what is appropriate from
like a safety standpoint or is required
that we definitely will do. And then of
course we want the building to be more
uh attractive in general and within what
is uh required you know in terms of uh
permissions to to update the exterior if
if so you know we will
>> um is there back to one of the parking
questions has there been any thought of
having any guest parking available for
the residents? Yeah, as um I think just
the way that I understand that is just
the way that the code works is that
there's additional uh spots that are
required um per certain number of units.
So that that we're just we just want to
follow that in terms of that when you I
think every five you have to have an
additional I think the idea is for Yes.
So yes,
>> is that part of the 16 or is that an
addition?
>> That's part of the 16.
>> Yeah, that's correct. uh the parking off
street parking requirements for multif
family dwellings are one space per unit
and then one space for every five units
for guest parking
>> and then I would say separately that my
my expectation is that we're going to
have vacancy. So I I I think that even
if we did if we did get permission that
we will inherently have um access
parking that could be utilized with
permission you know by guests. I don't
think there's going to be situation
where there is an overflow.
>> No, I I I think that
based off of my experience, the
likelihood that not everybody has
I would be surprised if I think
everybody everybody generally that lives
in that area has a vehicle to get to the
grocery store, get to work for so
I wouldn't be surprised if
have two cars and that's going to cause
an overflow onto streets where
because there was a cost associated with
an additional rental spot. I think you
know we're you're going to see more
people that are going to spill out the
street which is going to cause have an
effect on res.
>> Gotcha. Yeah. I think that we would
control for that by that as part of our
leasing process that we are going to ask
the residents how many you know vehicles
they have and that if we are seeing that
we're having uh vehicles, you know,
beyond family size or we're having large
family sizes where everybody has a
vehicle and that it's going to exceed
what we have available. Then we're going
to of course have, you know, full
insurance license plate information and
we're only going to if we get
permission, we're only going to give a
placard or identification sticker to
permitted vehicles. So, in terms of what
we could control, but we would not allow
um vehicles that do not have their
sticker or whatever system you put in
place to to utilize the law.
>> Right. Right. But the residents are
still going to be eligible for permanent
parking um which on the street. Sorry.
>> Yeah. Yeah. I I think that um in in my
experience, we um um we're going to I'm
hoping that we're going to have um a lot
of residents who are who are walking. It
is a walkable area in terms of access to
Broad Street Market and retail
employment.
that we do not have a problem.
>> Okay. Do you have any other questions?
Okay. Miss is uh done. Do you have any
questions? Okay. Um is that is that it
for your because we're going to wrap
this up and the board's going to make a
decision. Do you have anything else you
want to add?
Okay. Just done. Good. Okay. You're
done.
You rested. You're good. Um that was
that was all I had. I guess I'll I'll
add one more statement. Um you know that
the uh special exception requirements
and criteria that were submitted as part
of the application as highlighted in Mr.
Knight's report uh for the multif family
units. We did satisfy those criteria and
it is uh our position as well that we
met the requirements for use variance to
allow for this commercial parking lot.
Uh Mr. Hobs had some questions about the
hardship that was created. Um the
agreement of sale that we're going to
inherit on these lots are two parking
lots in the city which is a rarity in in
the city of Harrisburg that you you know
we usually have the opposite problem
where we don't have enough parking. Uh
we're inheriting a lot here that is a
large pre-existing and paved parking lot
uh inclusive of 122 CER Street that
essentially there's no reuse for. Uh
it's already paved. It's already a
pre-existing condition. Uh and so that's
the the hardship uh and and the calculus
that Brenamman Properties went through
in determining how can we make a re a
reasonable reuse of the entirety of the
property that not only will support the
residents of the of the multif family
dwelling um but also of the the
neighborhood uh at large and as Mr.
White just testified. Uh the you know
there will be significant conversation
then as tenants begin to lease their uh
multif family dwellings from Brenman
Properties. You know the the
conversations then would be into how
many parking placards are necessary for
this uh particular tenant and
calculating the number of spots that are
available of which there are 46 spots.
So, uh, it's a large lot that was
intended for use as as a big funeral
home. Um,
there there's going to be excess parking
spaces, I guess, what Brenamman
Properties is trying to get at. But, you
know, uh, it's a unique situation where
you have more parking than what is is
necessary. And so, that is the hardship
and and how we accounted for that in
the, uh, in the zoning narrative. With
that,
>> we have no further comments.
>> Um, you want to take a five minute
recess if you have any legal questions?
>> Okay, we're going to take a recess and
uh we'll be back shortly.
Okay, we're going to go back on the
record. Would
any of the board members like to make a
motion in this matter?
>> Yes. Um, I make a motion to grant
applicants special exception request to
expand the existing non-conforming
multif family dwelling to add eight new
units to the existing five units with
conditions set forth in the planning
commission resolution and to deny
applicants variance request to permit
commercial leasing of parking spaces
with regard to the lots located at 1332
through 1336 North Second Street and 122
CER Street.
>> Okay, there's a motion. Is there a
second?
I second.
>> Uh moved and seconded. Is there any
discussion among the board members
hearing? None. All those in favor
signify by saying I.
>> I.
>> Okay. Motion passes. You'll get a
written decision within 45 days of
today's hearing.
>> Thank you.
>> Yep.
Okay. Um, next
next hearing is Oh, I'm sorry. I'm going
too fast.
You're good. Okay. Uh, next application
is application uh 2617.
It's a request for a special exception
uh for the property located 1100 North
17th Street uh which is zoned
residential medium density
uh filed by Mohan Hadin incorporated uh
to establish a place of worship
uh for the property in question. And I
know I probably didn't pronounce that
correctly, did I?
>> Okay. Um again we have um
um our zoning administrator Jeffrey
Knight and um
but before we we have you give a a
summary I'm just going to read the uh
exhibits into the record. I have uh
board exhibit number one is the proof of
publication. Uh the time and place and
particular nature of this matter was
published in the Patriot News on October
5th and October 12th 2025.
B2 is a letter dated October 16, 2025
from the planning director, uh, Mr.
Knight, to the applicant notifying the
applicant of the time and place of the
hearing. Board exhibit number three is
the hearing notice posted upon the
property in question which occurred on
September 25th, 2025. Board exhibit
number four is a notification letters to
required neighbors and certificate of
mailing. Board exhibit number five is
the application packet with the attached
narrative photos of the interior and
exterior of the property and a petition
and support. Uh board exhibit number six
is the agreement of sale uh establishing
um applicant standing. Board exhibit
number seven is a deed and mortgage to
the property identifying the seller as a
current owner of the property. Uh board
exhibit uh number eight is the planning
bureau case report. Board exhibit number
nine is the city of Harrisburg planning
commission resolution.
And we received uh a letter of
opposition today. We marked as uh
exhibit C1 from Angelo and Chantel
Muhammed.
So there are the exhibits at this point.
And um sir, could you introduce yourself
for the record? My name is Abdul Jalen.
>> Okay.
>> And I'm the director of Moin.
>> Okay. Could you spell your last name for
the record?
>> L A R R Y R Y R Y R Y R Y R Y R Y R Y R
Y R Y R.
>> Okay. And Mr. Mary
L.
>> Larry. Okay. Got it. Um
we're going to have to swear you in for
the record. Do you swear or affirm that
the testimony you're about to give
before this board is the truth and
nothing but the truth?
>> Okay. And is there anybody here um in
opposition uh to this uh application?
>> Oh, okay.
>> I would say I'm in opposition. I have
questions.
>> Okay.
>> Um would you uh where do you live close
to this uh project?
Okay. Again, as I indicated before, do
would you like to um participate as a
party or do would you just like to make
a statement at the end?
>> Party is you could cross-examine the
witness when u when they testify and you
could present your own u your own um
evidence um as opposed to just making a
statement at the end for or against.
Will you just want to ask some
questions?
>> Okay. All right. I get it. Um, Mr.
Knight, do you want to give us a
summary?
>> Sure. Uh, so the applicant uh for case
number 2617
uh is proposing to establish a place of
worship use of the subject property
which requires zoning hearing board
approval of a special exception for the
proposed use per section 7-305.7
of the zoning code. Um so the uh subject
property um previously in the past uh
operated as a child care center used up
to I almost want to say 2018 maybe um
and then in the intervening years uh it
had experienced vacancy um certainly you
know during COVID obviously and um then
I believe the applicant uh purchased
this at one point um or the uh property
propert purchased it at one point. Um,
and I believe there was a proposal in
2022 to establish a convenience store on
site here, which was, I believe, denied
by the zoning hearing board. Um, and
since then there has not been um another
uh use proposed for the property. Uh so
the current uh place of worship use um
either by its own nature or as the
conversion of one non-conforming use of
childcare center to another place of
worship would require a special
exception in either case. Um the uh with
the subject property at 1100 North 17th
Street. There are two other properties
uh located um just to the west uh across
from uh the subject property on Sto on
Shot Street. Uh one is 1616 Hurst Street
and that's the property parking lot
directly to the west. It has a um small
garage on it. And then just to the north
of that at 1625 Cumberland Street is
another property uh half of which is an
enclosed um undeveloped parcel uh that I
think had a playground of some sort in
time. And then the other half is um
parking spaces directly adjacent to Shot
alley or Shot Street. Um and uh in total
uh the two parking lots, two accessory
parking lots have 20 spaces on them. Um
the applicant had lined additional
spaces, but they create non-conforming
aspects with regard to the access to the
spaces that were on. So, um, in our, uh,
review, and you'll see that, uh, we
recommend either removing those spaces,
um, or, uh, red designing the parking
lot, um, and providing a site plan to
show how that will be, the new spaces
will be laid out. Um, with the 20
parking spaces, the applicants would be
able to have up to 80 individuals on
site uh per the off- streetet parking
requirements, which require uh one um
parking space per four seats uh for a
place of worship use. Uh in their
application, the applicants um indicated
that they would generally have, I
believe, up to 50 um people on a weekly
basis for weekly services uh and
potentially 75 for special events. So in
either event um you know using people in
in attendance as a proxy for seats um in
either event they would have the
required off- streetet parking
associated with this uh use. So they
would not require a special exception
for relief from the off- streetet
parking requirements. Um so in effect uh
the request is just the special
exception for the proposed um place of
worship use.
With that being said, uh the planning
commission recommends that the zoning
hearing board approve the request with
the following conditions. Uh the
applicant must submit a detailed site
plan developed by a professional for the
accessory parking lot at 1616 Hurst
Street showing the installation of
required landscaping along the western
frontage uh which had been uh removed
previously um and which would created a
non-conforming aspect of that lot uh and
new landscaping along the southern
frontage and parking spaces configured
in conformance with the applicable
regulations in section 7-327.8
of the zoning code. Uh, and as noted,
were the applicant to remove the five
spaces that they recently lined, um, the
existing condition of that site would
just be a non-conforming aspect of the
property. Um, and the number of parking
spaces that would be there between that
lot and 1625 would still accommodate uh,
the proposed use. And then the second
condition is that new wall signage uh
proposed by the applicant will be
limited to four square feet and must
otherwise be in conformance with the
applicable zoning regulations or a
separate zoning relief application will
need to be approved by the zoning
hearing board. Uh in their application
they noted the their proposed signage
would be six square feet. So that's what
that condition uh refers to. The
planning commission recommends the
zoning hearing board approved the
request for the following reasons. Uh
the property has experience experienced
an extended period of vacancy seven
years and previously accommodated a
different non-conforming use on site a
child care center. As such there is
support for the allowance of a
non-conforming use that the building can
be actively occupied. Uh the project use
is a fairly low inensity use which
should be compatible with the
surrounding residential neighborhood and
should not create adverse impacts for
residents. And finally, the applicant
has committed to building and site
improvements that will improve the
aesthetics of the properties, ensure the
compatibility with the zoning neighbor
with the surrounding neighborhood, and
increase their conformance with the
zoning code.
>> Mr. Knight, you had how does um 1625
Cland Street fit in? You'd mentioned
that was another
>> Yeah, that was something the applicants
referenced in their application. Um
there I believe it's under the same
ownership uh as the other two
properties. Um, and I think it has 10
um, head-in parking spaces off of Shot
Street.
>> Okay. I I noticed that it wasn't part of
the conditions. Oh, it's not.
>> But that wasn't part of the agreement of
sale.
>> Uh, I don't usually dig into the
agreement of sale language.
>> Okay.
>> Okay. Um,
Mr. Lowry, do you want to state your
case now? Do you want to tell us what
you wanted?
>> Uh, basically, we, you know, trying to
purchase this property in order for us
to use as a as a for,
uh, so we we discussed the matter with
the owner because he failed to attain
the building for his own when he tried
to establish a grocery store, whatnot.
So he approached us and said, "Okay, I
have a property if you want to buy since
you guys looking for a location." Said,
"Good. We're going to buy with the
condition that if the, you know, zoning
board approve the property, if they
approve, yes, we'll pay you and we enter
into whatever agreement we're going to
have." So that's the plan because we
having like a weekend school for
children Saturdays and Sundays
you know Saturday Sunday between the
hour of 9 to 2.
So that's the main activities other than
the Friday congregation
and
other than the students or the kids who
come for the weekend classes, it's only
about eight staffs that helping the
students and that's it. So there's no
it's not going to take any, you know,
extra parking space or whatnot in order
to like down a whole lot of people
rather than
So we see this to be an opportunity for
us to be able to, you know, accommodate
our community. For now, we using 1719
Warner Street, which we think that
because we don't have space for the kids
to have a playground and the life of
that, we see this to be a very good
access for us.
>> Yeah.
>> Okay. So the weekend school would be
both Saturday and Sunday from 9 to 2.
>> 9 to 2.
>> Okay. And the Friday congregation about
what times?
>> Our Friday congregation normally start
at 12:50.
>> Okay.
>> And we finish by 1:30.
So it's
>> yeah it's within like a two hours you
know
>> like during the day on Friday
>> because people come in early some people
come in early before the sermon start
some people come during the sermon
>> the pray is around 1:30
>> got it and then what will the facility
you be used for the house of worship on
other times
>> as Muslims we have
you know obligation to establish
congregation five times a day. This is
not a bigger congregation. This is like
10 to 15 people you know during each
congregation.
So like you have a morning prayers, you
have a noon prayers, you have afternoon
prayers, then you have evening prayers
and night prayers. So as times goes on
the varies.
>> Okay.
>> It's based on how the movement of the
sun is. It's not based on specific hours
that you can, you know, establish a
prayer.
>> Right. Okay. So, it'll be used basically
mostly all day for worship.
>> Basically, normally as soon as the
prayers is over, everybody's gone. You
don't see people hanging around or
anything like that because we have a lot
of people during the daytime people
working.
So, they don't even stay,
you know, more than 10 minutes.
>> Okay.
>> Yeah.
>> And then how many staff did you say
there would be?
>> Yeah, for the case is eight staffs.
>> Okay.
And otherwise, how many staff would you
have?
>> No, that's the normal.
>> Okay.
>> Yeah, that's the maximum that we have.
>> Okay.
Is there anything else that you'd like
to
>> um regarding to I think you know I'm not
sure if you passed by and see we coded
the lines to you know to remove
>> Okay. So the lines are removed.
>> Yeah. Yes. So we we coated the we coated
it with a black you know coating and
remove those areas. So when it comes to
the landscape we're trying to reach out
to different landscapers but be a
around, but one of them said he's going
to come on Thursday, come and check and
see how you know what we need.
>> Okay,
>> Mr. Muhammad, do you have questions?
>> Go ahead.
>> The congregation
beautiful.
So with that said, my concern was
and he touched the point. You already
touched the point. So the parcels in the
back
area in the back.
I want to make sure
I don't want
person. My concerns
my concern was that previous allowation
chang
Well, what the application is is for a
house of worship, which um is via
special exception that would be
different from a convenience store. So,
and I think we had said that a
convenience store was previously denied
for this lot. Um, so, um,
you know, if anybody would have this
property after this applicant and want
to have a convenience store, they'd have
to come in here for another.
>> I didn't explain that to him. I said
that, you know, it doesn't work like
that that you just, you know, buy a
property and transfer it for someone to
use it for different purposes.
>> It doesn't work like that. You have to
come back to the
>> Every use is unique. Yeah. Okay.
>> It was the previous person who was
disingenuous when he presented the
ideas.
Now speaking, you know, I've spoken to
you on several
[Music]
education children.
you know, so that being said,
>> okay well well thanks for um your
participation. Does the board have any
questions of the applicant?
>> I just so I might have got a little
thrown off too. Um so will you mention
so the parking spaces that you mentioned
I think are about 20
>> right? That's not that's just with the
main building, not the other
uh lots that you pointed out. Like
>> so there are like 10 spaces at the lot
at 1616 Hurst Street and 10 at 1625
Cumberland Street and I had uh Miss
Cameron check uh Dolph County property
tax records and they're all under the
same ownership. Um, so regarding the
sale agreement or the lease agreement,
um, I don't know what all the specifics
are and what was included, but it's the
same owner. So it's not like the
applicant will have to go to different
owners, one who may be less willing to
to sell it. I think the applicant or the
property owner and the applicant are,
you know, I think joined on what they're
looking to do with these properties and
so it shouldn't be an issue of securing
the parking, but there is sufficient
parking. um aside from those five spaces
that the applicant just noted um to
provide the required parking for the
proposed use on those two lots.
>> Okay. But at the subject property,
there's only five.
>> The subject property has none itself.
It's it it's largely the building and
like a lawn in front of it. But those
other two spaces directly across shot
street um again owned by the same owner
of the subject parcel has the parking.
Basically, it's a combo.
>> Yeah.
>> You know, 179,
1100, 1616, 162 three and 1625. All of
them is one deed.
All in one deed. It's not something that
was separated.
>> Okay.
>> But the the agreement of sale that you
have, you're purchasing just 1100 North
17th.
>> That's correct. with the parking also
included. He didn't you know he gave us
the daycare was using the 1616 air
street as a parking space including the
other parking areas including the fence
where there's a playground before. So
you know 177 is a building the rest of
it is nothing.
It's like an empty vacant but
>> but if are part of one parcel. When they
all addresses be listed then in the
agreement of sale if it's for that
particular parcel.
>> Well, I mean the deed the deed shows
them as separate lots. So if you have a
deed with separate lots, you could deed
out just one of them. You know, if you
have six of them there, you don't have
to as long as they're separate lots. So,
um
it looks like
But the purchases is is only the um 1100
North 7 17th Street.
But I I think on the other hand, I mean,
it's it seems to be like the planning
commission has a condition that, you
know, her street looks like her street's
going to be used for parking. I guess if
her street is not used for parking then
then they can't do what they want to do.
Is that what you're
>> Yeah. I believe that the you know the
planning commission made their
determination based on uh the
expectation that the parking on the
other two lots 1616 H Street and 1625
were a part of this use.
So m um Mr. Knight for the
for the condition condition number one
it speaks of 1616 her street correct
>> should that also include 1625 Cumberland
Street
>> well so the reason only 1616 her street
was included was because the applicants
had lined those five additional spaces
and so and that created basically that
like pre procluded access to the spaces
behind it and so the condition was put
in to say if you want to add more spaces
you're going to have to give us a site
plan, you can remove those spaces you
added and whatever configuration of that
lot results from that would be
considered the non-conforming aspect of
the previous uses. So, we were just
looking for the site plan if they did
want to add spaces, but that is not
required.
Awesome.
What's this?
You ready?
>> Okay. So, um, thank you for your
comments and besides uh what was
presented and help clarify some things,
but are you the owner of all of that
that parcel? 100%.
>> Yeah, I'm the owner. We the owner say
because it's
>> or you're trying or
>> we're trying to acquire.
>> Okay.
>> Yes.
>> Then my question would be is why is not
that every out of that partial all the
lots included in the D is specified as a
right of law.
>> Um because uh we wasn't anticipating
that it's we have to add those other
parcels
in the application because we thought
the 1100 is you know covered the rest of
the area. That's why
>> but you're requesting
parking or there's request satisfy the
parking requirement
>> those lots are being included so it
needs to be specified.
>> Yeah. I wasn't you know aware that we
need to specify that because the 1100
when we look when we do our you know
investigation of the county
>> we see that the price is parallel
the price of the you know the entire
properties are parallel it's not like a
separated in you know based on the
address. So because of that we thought
that this is how it should be. So we
left it as such
>> but you you can own the parcel the
parcel but the lots can be heated
outside. That's my concern we're having.
>> Yeah. They want to make sure you're that
you will have access to all of those
parking spaces for all of that. But like
the only way they can be assured of that
is if you own that parcel or you have a
lease with the person that does own the
parcel. and all the lives that are
contained within it.
>> Yes. If you if you go right now, you see
that we put a line all across
>> all across the the parking lot on
Cumberland and shoot
>> because if we don't have the right of
it, we're not going to put no lines over
there.
>> Yeah. But but they need to see some sort
of document that says that is the only
thing. So like either either uh Mr.
Ammani who owns the lots will have to
sell those to you or you will have to
get a lease from him for the parking on
those lots. So he can either sell you
those properties or or you sign a lease
>> and those lots are included into the
parcel that it should be that that verb
should be there in specificity. You need
it needs to be specifically stated and
that way the assumptions that you made
are backed up legally.
>> Okay.
follow.
>> Do you uh So, yeah. What I what the
concern is is if the the owner of that
say her street says, "I'm not going to
let you use it anymore for some reason,
then you don't have the parking." So,
it's
>> you want to have you want to have an
agreement or or by deed. Um and we could
uh Mr. Knight, I mean, if if Mr. Larry's
okay with it. We could continue this
till next month and see if you have you
could get, you know, either an agreement
or,
you know, you could get the her street
property to be a part of your agreement
of sale.
>> Okay.
>> Is that
Yeah.
>> Yeah.
>> Both because you need the 10 and the 10
from both. So you would need something
either
lease or you are going to own those.
>> Okay.
>> Both of those.
>> Okay.
>> Okay.
>> So, are you okay if we continue it till
next month to see if you have time?
>> No.
>> Even though I wish that we finish
everything.
>> I know.
>> It's for your safety though, too.
>> Yeah.
>> You know, I guarantee you that, you
know, there's no issue on that parking
space.
>> Okay. Okay. And and I can and I can
follow up and explain what documentation
you'll need to bring to the next
meeting.
>> No problem.
>> Okay. So, is there a motion to continue
this matter to the November regularly
scheduled November zoning hearing board
meeting?
>> I make motion that we continue
to November.
>> Is there a second?
>> Second.
>> Moved and second. Is all those in favor
signify by saying I.
>> I.
>> Okay. Great. We'll see you next month
then. Hopefully you'll have everything
together. Okay. Thanks for coming.
>> Say again. My first name is A B D U L
space J A L E L
J A L E L.
>> Thank you.
What's that?
>> For another reason.
>> I mean, he can't back into it. He He'd
have to go through the process.
>> Yeah, absolutely.
And and I've been and I've been fairly
clear with them that like the
convenience store is not get approved.
>> We're just going to take a five minute
bathroom break and we'll be right back.
Okay, everyone ready? Okay, so next is
uh application number 2618. This is a
variance and special exception
application for 1605 to613 Market
Street. It's zoned residential medium
density. Um, this uh application was
filed by uh Chris Franklin with Handles
Helping Hand Foundation
uh to request relief from regulations
regarding lot width and uh and relief
from off- streetet parking requirements.
Uh I'm going to mark
exhibits that we have so far.
Exhibit B1 is a proof of publication. A
time and place in particular nature of
this matter was published in the Patriot
News on October 5th and October 12th,
2025.
Uh board exhibit number two is a letter
dated October 16, 2025 from the planning
director to the applicant notifying the
applicant of the time and place of the
hearing. Board exhibit number three is
notice uh of posting of the property in
question which occurred on September
25th, 2025. Board exhibit number four
are the notification letters to the
required neighbors and certificate of
mailing. Board exhibit number five is
the application packet uh with letter
intent to uh rent parking spaces, photos
of the property and subdivision and land
development plan uh for the property.
Board exhibit number six is the
Harrisburg redevelopment authority
resolution establishing applicants
standing to pursue relief. Board exhibit
number seven is the planning bureau case
report. Board exhibit number eight is a
city of Harrisburg planning commission
resolution.
And could we have who's for the
applicant?
>> Yes. My name is Sean Tul attorney here
in Harrisburg representing the
applicant.
>> Okay. And with me is
>> Zane G project manager with Integrated
Consulting the civil engineer for the
applicant.
>> Mr. G, could you raise your right hand?
Do you swear or affirm that the
testimony you're about to give before
this board is the truth and nothing but
the truth?
>> I do.
>> Okay. Mr. Knight, do you want to give a
summary of this application?
>> Uh, sure. So, the um Z relief request
for case number 2618 are a variance and
special exception. Uh, one of each. Uh
the special exception is related to the
relief from the off street parking
requirements for the proposed four uh
unit development because the because the
um units are intended to be uh
designated affordable through the city's
affordable housing program. They're only
required to provide half of a uh parking
space per unit. So they'd be required to
have two units. Um, as the applicants
noted, they do have a draft um parking
lease and intent to lease spaces at uh a
um accessory parking lot owned by a
church a block to the west. Uh and then
the variance application is associated
with the uh required lot width of um of
properties in the residential medium
density zoning district per section
7-307.3
uh of the zoning code which requires
them to have a minimum lot width of 20
ft. Uh the proposed um lots uh that will
be established by the consolidation of
the five existing lots and the uh
resubdion of the property will be two 21
ft lots on the end units and a 16 ft lot
uh or two 16t lots in the center units.
So only two of the four unit uh four
lots to be created will require the
variance uh relief. Um the board members
may recall this project from a few
months ago when um a different iteration
was proposed which was a nine-unit um
affordable housing uh project, a multif
family dwelling. Um many of the same uh
zoning relief aspects uh were inherent
in that or considerations I should say
were inherent in that. Um but the
applicants have decided to revise their
proposal and um the current proposal is
just for four uh single family row
homes, attached single family row homes
uh on the four lots to be created. Um
overall the property has been a long
vacant uh lot with um the remnants of a
community garden which doesn't appear to
really have had much attention in the
past few years. Um and uh the applicant
is proposing to develop um structures
that reflect the architecture and
streetscape of the surrounding blocks.
They'll have uh covered front porches as
well as second floor oral windows which
is uh similar to what you see in the
blocks um uh to the east and west of the
subject property. Um the variance is
justified uh due to the fact that the
existing five lots are uh non-conforming
with respect to the lot width. So the
proposal to consolidate and resubdivide
the lots will actually bring the site
more into conformance with the zoning
regulations. Um it only require it only
involves two of the four lots to be uh
uh established. And uh the final reason
is because um the applicants could
reduce the intensity of the zoning
relief uh for the two interior lots uh
by reducing the outer lots from 21 ft to
20 ft. But that would um rem remove some
of the uh area for landscaping that's
required for projects this nature. uh
and uh potentially result in those
buildings encroaching into the setbacks
on those side. So the proposal for the
relief from two of the uh four lot
widths uh is um is supported is
justified by um there being additional
zoning relief that would be required if
the applicants were trying to meet the
lot width across all four. Uh with
respect uh then the zoning the
planning commission has uh recommended
the zoning hearing board approved the
requests with the following conditions.
The applicants will receive approval of
the law consolidation subdivision and
land development plan submitted
concurrently with the zoning relief
application and any departmental
recommendations and or conditions of
approval applied to that review. Uh the
applicant should consider fencing in all
or portions of the rear yards or
consider stall installing fences and
gates along the sides of the end units
to give residents more privacy and
security.
The planning commission recommends the
zoning hearing board approved the
request for the following reasons. The
applicant has demonstrated that they
have met the burden for granting both
zoning relief requests. They have
provided a lease for five spaces at a
nearby surface parking lot if necessary.
And the requested variance is a minor
deviation that obviousates more
intensive zoning relief regarding
setback encroachment and landscape
screening while providing secondary
egress from the rear yards in the event
of any emergency. The sighting massing
and design of the proposed row homes
will reflect the character of the
surrounding community surrounding
neighborhood providing compatible infill
development along a primary corridor
through the Allison Hill neighborhood.
Specifically, the plan bureau notes the
inclusion of front porches and second
floor oral windows matches many of the
other row homes on the block and is a
significant improvement over other
designs featuring flat facades. Uh the
project will improve currently vacant
overgrown lots with affordable units
that are pressing need in the city
generally and the neighborhood
specifically. And finally, the project
advances the purpose of the RM zoning
district provided in chapter 7-305.4C
4C of the code as it provides a
development at medium densities that
will not adversely impact the stability
of the area and advances chapter
7-301.27
of the zoning code by protecting the
residential neighborhood and providing
diverse housing opportunities.
>> Okay. Thank you. Mr. O2, do you want to
proceed?
>> Yes. Uh as Jeffrey indicated, the
applicant is the handles helping hand
Foundation. It's a nonprofit funded by
Chris Franklin who now coaches the
Harlem charters. Um he would be here
tonight to effect
on their in their tour right now. Uh the
properties at issue of five parcels on
Market Street 16005607
09 113
Market Street. Uh as Jeffrey indicated,
we we were here before uh got the
approval then for a threetory 9 unit
apartment building. Uh but since then
due to cost considerations we've
rescaled and uh before you now with four
uh four town homes uh the purp the
intention is to sell those the first
time qualifying homeowners purpose of
Mr. uh Franklin's foundation is to
encourage
home ownership. Uh so with that I'd like
to call my I got just a little bit of
testimony here. I'd like to call my
first witness Mr. Gist. Mr. Guys, could
you please uh state your name and your
relationship to the project?
>> Zane Gist with Integrated Consulting, a
project manager, uh the civil
engineering consultant for uh the
applicant
>> and as Mr. Knight alluded or yeah, Mr.
Knight alluded to, we have a special
exception and a variance at issue
tonight. Special exception pertains to
the off street parking u between the
zoning ordinance and the uh the city's
affordable housing program. What is the
parking requirement for this project?
>> Two spaces for half have space for each.
>> Okay. And as designed right now, there
are no
there's no
>> there is no off street parking uh
account for within the the project site
area.
>> Can you explain the reason for that?
Well, at this point there there are no u
accessible points in which it makes uh
sense to be able to provide on street
parking without putting a curve cut uh
sacrificing
the units proposed here. There is no
rear access
for wide street and alley uh rear
property here. Um so really it's not a
viable path on which there on street off
street park could be provided to serve
this.
If there were access, you said it
involve a a curb cut,
>> correct?
>> So, what would the net result of that
be?
>> Uh driveway that would come into the
property and likely interfere with the
the proposed layout as it currently sits
that would be out of character with the
surrounding neighborhood.
>> Would it be removing a a parking space
or two on Market Street for the curb
cut?
>> Correct. Yes, you would be sacrificing
on street parking as well to provide
that. So it'll probably be net z I mean
a net zero almost
>> if you could remove two spaces
>> it it it would likely uh not result in
much benefit at all to the development.
>> And Mr. Knight alluded to an agreement
that the uh that the project has with
the uh church on Market Street. Correct.
>> Are you familiar with that?
>> Yes.
>> What's that? What's the purpose of that
agreement? Uh that agreement is to
provide uh off streetet parking through
an agreement with the church um to
support this proposed development uh
assuming that it does receive all
necessary approvals um to provide an
access now of the spaces required to
alleviate any concerns regarding off
streetet parking.
>> The variance has to do with the uh the
width of the building. Is that correct?
>> Width of the lots.
And what is the requirement for the for
the zoning ordinance?
>> 20T minimum lot width for this zoning
district.
>> How many of these units are need a
reduction from that?
>> The two interior units lots two and
three uh each each town home is uh
proposed is 16 ft. The outer lots uh
comply with the zoning ordinance
providing 21 ft. Interior lots be 16 ft
as they are attached dwellings. Um
um necess necessitating the variance
request for the proposed development
>> in order to get the all all four of them
20 ft. You would probably have to
you'd have to go above the properties on
this.
>> Correct. We' be seeking additional
relief in order to uh to achieve that.
But the currently the sideyard setbacks
are provided for in the uh the
dimensions required.
And this at one time was five separate
homes. Is that right?
>> Correct. In its current state, there's
five five parcels on this uh project.
>> So this this is an improvement over the
the previous this one's in more
conformance with the zoning.
>> This this proposal would bring this this
uh project site in parcels into further
conformance with the zoning code.
>> And uh Mr. Mr. Tonight's case report is
on record. Uh you reviewed that?
>> Yes.
>> Are you in do you agree with it?
>> Yes.
>> Uh are you as for the uh
uh
conditions set forth in that as well as
the resolution passed by city by the
planning commission. Are you in
agreement with those?
>> Yes.
>> I have no further question.
>> Does the board have any questions?
These are the town houses. The home
you're basically going for home
ownership, right?
>> Right.
>> What's the price point on?
>> Yeah. I I don't think we've gotten that
far, but location, I I would not expect
them to be in excess of I anticipate
between 100 to 125.
>> Yeah. You let HUD set the set the
standard 8 a MI or HUD set whatever.
>> I don't I'm not sure if they would or
not. I mean it's just really the market
would
you say. So these will be affordable.
Correct.
>> Affordable. Yes. I mean yeah be for
first-time homeowners who who who who
submit who you know meet the
requirements.
>> These will be subject to the uh the less
than 80% MFI standards set forth by the
zoning code.
and these homes ADA compliant.
>> We are not currently proposing an ADA
entrance into the homes. We have that is
the discussion point comment that was
raised during plan commission and that
we need to look into further as as
potential options to do that. It's it's
pretty constrained at the moment to
provide you know between the rear of the
properties and what's proposed there.
Um, and the front currently is designed
in order to try to fit the character of
the neighborhood with a front porch
area, a step or two up into each unit.
Um, and you know, there's we we could
look into some options there. I think at
the end of the day, we want to make sure
that we're providing what something
that's in character the neighborhood and
not
going above and beyond to to try and put
some sort of elaborate entrance into
these as well. keeping them
with the rest of along the street there.
>> Thank you all questions.
>> I'm sorry.
>> Yeah. The only thing I want to add to my
to what I've already said is that the if
if we get the uh the approvals the
finances in place, we're going to break
ground.
>> Yes. Uh just had a question about the
the parking agreement. Is there uh what
is the term for that agreement?
>> They've agreed to allow us to uh
to to uh let's see
if it doesn't interfere with their
services. So I guess it's you basically
anytime but Sunday morning that that the
tenants can park at their space. They're
going to allocate a number of space.
So you said they could park there as
long out other than Sunday service.
>> Yeah,
>> got you. So it's not really like
Okay. Um and then I guess um what is the
current length of that agreement?
>> That's a good question. I should have
reviewed before it came in here. Uh
>> my recollection is that it's it's a
draft agreement or in draft form at this
point pending the approvals of uh the
city and that upon I think receiving all
final approvals that that they would
that a final agreement would be uh
proposed between the church and the
applicant to that that would have more
detailed literature in that the length
of what that lease would u cover.
>> Okay. U
with regard to that, Mr. Hobs and U. Mr.
Knight, um there's not a requirement
there. It's not a condition that uh this
applicant obtain that lease with the
church. So in other words, if if this is
um request is granted, it it's granted
for the two spaces to be, you know,
basically on street. like if that
they're going to try to work out
something, I think, but if it doesn't
work out, then there's still
>> and and I would note and I would note uh
to that point um there are bus lines
that run along um street in front and
there
>> while there's I would say less um
available on street parking on uh South
16th Street. Um if you go across the
street to North 16th Street, there is
generally more available on street
parking. So between the bus routes and
the available on street parking and the
draft lease agreement that the
applicants have, you know, we uh feel
that um they've met their burden of
proof for the relief from the off street
parking.
>> Yep. That's all I have
question.
Um the owner of the properties is
redevelopment authority, correct?
The people going who's back? Who's back?
Who's the financing for the construction
of these four buildings?
>> Okay. Yeah, we've uh so far we've had
the funding from PHF.
>> Uh we got neighborhood assistance from
Midpin Bank and Mnt Bank.
Most recently, we received the money is
allocated through the city about two
weeks ago.
some funding there. So, right now we're
about million three and we
got another fair application going into
the PHF
here in another two weeks or another
month probably.
>> Yeah. Reason I ask is 1.3 1.4 million
that's coming in for this construction.
But those buildings, you're not if
you're going to sell them 125,000. So,
somebody's taking a a shaving on this.
>> Yeah. Yeah. It's not a good business
plan. Okay. But just so you understand
the uh when the buyer is buying,
there'll be contingencies and warranties
in the in the deeds that they aren't
allowed to cash out. If they do, they
have to offer back to us first and
yeah, like 18 20 years.
>> If they sell within that period of time,
we get to offer offer we get the chance
to match something.
>> Okay. So, there's no decrease. deep
restrictions saying I said they could I
was been involved with one for Tri
County and they bought it they got keep
they can't let that house for seven
years so
>> but they use who how they got their
financing
>> yeah yeah some of those funers do put
that right in their
>> okay thank you
>> do you have any questions No. Okay.
Is the board I think they've
>> Do you want to make a motion?
>> Make a motion for 268
be approved with the with theations
and
by the planning commission.
Okay. Uh, Mr. Fipps made a motion to
grant the variance and special exception
request with regards to 1605613
Market Street uh, with the conditions
set forth by the U. Harrisburg Planning
Commission and the resolution. Is there
a second?
>> So moved.
>> Uh, moved and seconded. Uh, any
discussion?
All those in favor signify by saying I.
>> I.
>> Okay. You'll receive a written decision
within 45 days.
>> Thank you.
>> Okay.
>> And as soon as our stenographer is
ready, we'll have the last application.
Okay. Okay. Next um is U application
number 2619. It's a special exception
application for 1909 North Front Street.
Uh this property is zoned um Riverfront
RF and uh it was filed by uh David
Butcher of WCI Partners LP. Uh the
purpose of this special exception
request is to convert the existence the
existing office building to a
multifamily dwelling in the RF district.
I'm going to mark some exhibits for
expediency sake.
Uh exhibit B1 is the proof of
publication. uh time and place and
particular nature of this matter was
advertised in the Patriot News and that
appeared on October 5th and October
12th, 2025. Board exhibit number two is
the letter dated October 16, 2025 from
planning director Jeffrey Knight to the
applicant. Board exhibit number three is
a hearing no notice uh uh evidence of it
being posted upon the property in
question on September 25th, 2025. Board
exhibit number four is the notification
letters to the required neighbors and
certificate of mailing. Board exhibit
number six is the application packet
with the attached narrative plans for
the proposal and letters of support from
the Harrisburg Historic Association and
the old uptown neighborhood association.
Board exhibit number six is the
agreement of sale for the property
establishing the applicant standing to
pursue zoning relief this evening. Board
exhibit number seven is the deed to the
property identifying the seller uh as
the current um owner of the property.
Board exhibit number eight is the
planning bureau case report. Board
exhibit number nine is the city of
Harrisburg planning commission
resolution.
And then for the applicant this evening
is you Mr. Butcher.
>> Yes.
>> Okay. David Butcher, could you raise
your right hand? Do you swear or affirm
that the testimony that you'll give
before this board is the truth and
nothing but the truth?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. Mr. Knight, do you want to give a
summary?
>> Sure. Uh, so the um zoning issues
related to case 2619 uh are a special
exception uh for uh the applicant to
convert the existing office building
into a 60-unit multif family dwelling
use. Uh the proposed use requires zoning
hearing board approval of a special
exception per section 7-305.7
of the zoning code. Uh so this um
application is similar to some of the
other ones that the uh board has
reviewed in in recent uh months as far
as conversion of office space to
residential units. So, um, you know, a
trend that's very evident, um,
throughout the city, particularly in
downtown and Midtown, of as some of
these, uh, larger businesses are
decamping for the suburbs, uh, leaving
behind, um, office space, uh, that needs
a new use and the demand for office
space, as you've heard, you know, here
at tonight's meeting and past meetings,
uh, is is significantly decreased. Um
and there is a concurrent um increasing
demand for um housing units. Uh this is
a bit different in that this is a
purpose-built office building. It's not
a conversion of residential to office
and then now back to residential. Uh
this is a more modern building. I think
it was built in 1983. Um and uh the
applicant uh is you know seeking to just
trying to find a viable reuse for this.
Um the proposed 60 unit office building
uh sorry apartment building um is in the
plane bureau's perspective a a good um
use for this especially because it's a
larger building so it might be difficult
to find a commercial tenant. Uh it's on
the riverfront. Um so it's taking
advantage of uh you know the amenities
there, the views and the access to uh
riverfront park. Um and uh the applicant
uh will be uh providing uh the requisite
amount of off- streetet parking on site.
Um so the parking shouldn't be a uh
concern um for uh neighborhood
residents. Um, so all of that being
said, the planning commission has
recommended the zoning hearing board
approve the request with the following
conditions. Uh, the applicant will
receive approval of the law consolidate
of the land development plan submitted
concurrently with the zoning relief
application. Uh, and any departmental
recommendations or conditions of
approval applied to that review. Um, and
the applicant uh has provided that and
that should be going before the city
council by the end of the year. Uh the
planning commission recommends the
zoning hearing board approved the
request for the following reasons. By
adaptively reusing an office building
along the riverfront corridor through
conversion to residential units. The
project conforms to the goals,
objectives, and action items in the
comprehensive plan. And the purpose of
the riverfront zoning district as
outlined in section 7-305.4G
of the zoning code. Project site is
located in a mixeduse corridor with
nearby residential, commercial, and
institutional uses. and there are only
minor proposed exterior changes to the
building and site and thus the proposed
multif family dwelling use should not
have an adverse impact on the
neighborhood. And finally, the proposed
development will add new residents to
the neighborhood to activate the street
on nights and weekends and grow customer
base to support local businesses.
>> Thank you, Mr. Knight. Uh Mr. Butcher,
do you want to tell us why you're here?
>> Yes. Uh Dave Butcher with WCI Partners.
We are proposing the uh project of the
conversion of an office building to 60
units. As Mr. Knight said, um the
building has served for about 20 years
as the headquarters for Hersa
Hospitality. Um that company sold and
they are relocating corporate
headquarters somewhere else. Um they're
selling this uh site. Um they had looked
for uh other potential office users for
a while. had found anything. Um so that
we had entered into conversations with
them about purchasing and converting it
to 60 units. Um it was formally before
it was an office building a uh nursing
home facility. So it's a rehab facility
basically. So each of the apartments
that you see here was um essentially a
uh two rooms uh within the hospital. So,
there were two bathrooms in each of
these uh units, um two bedrooms, and
just a small demising wall that served
as a rehab facility. So, it had 120
rooms with 120 residents.
>> We're we're using some of that
structural layout each window bay kind
of lays out with the structural columns.
Um, so we're able to use uh that
footprint of each unit, but rather than
uh it being for two residents, it would
be for
essentially
that that's project in a nutshell.
Have any questions?
Okay. One or two times. I really don't
have a lot of questions asking about
this again. Um you said 60 uh it's going
to be 60 apartments.
>> One bedroom, correct?
>> Okay. And they have all the facilities
inside. It's already parking lots there.
Landscaping.
you're in the flood zone, but
you're going to use existing glasses. No
construction.
>> And and if I may, on the flood zone, um
because the building was built in ' 83,
they were cognizant of the FEMA map. So
the first finished floor is 20 in above
the base flood elevation. So that's was
very helpful.
>> And these are uh there's no basement.
This is all above.
>> Correct. There's no There is a uh small
sprinkler room on the side. Um we're
going to be in discussions with uh Mr.
Knight and FEMA figure out what
>> this is a side question. So let's look
at the
aesthetics inside the building each
units. Um utilities are going these are
apartment utilities going to be included
into the lease or
going to be um dome electric I don't
think this is gas and it says almost all
should be all electric
>> right all electric yeah typically we
include water um and then electric is
submetered separately
>> this is a crazy question you ever think
about solar cells because of where
you're located at river front putting
some type of solar panels on the top
>> it's not a crazy question I have been
thinking about that um state provides
what are called
state credits for those. So, it's
something I want to explore for this as
we're going through the construction
phase.
>> Maybe reach out to the city to get the
excess ones we took off of Seventh
Street.
>> I don't know where those are anymore.
>> We kept all that equipment and
everything else. And there you go. But
that's all. Thank you.
>> Yeah.
>> Um just a couple questions. So, what um
I'm assuming this wasn't mentioned, so I
guess they probably within the
requirements for parking.
>> Mhm.
>> Yeah.
>> Which is what is that for this?
>> It would be 72 uh parking spaces.
>> Okay.
>> Um and I was just wondering these are
all market rate.
>> Yeah.
>> Units.
All right. That's that's all I have.
Any other questions for Mr. Butcher?
>> I think he's uh completed his case.
Would the board like to uh make a
motion?
>> Yes, I'll make a motion to accept uh the
special exception request for
application 2619 with the conditions set
forth by the planning commission.
Okay. Moved by Mr. Hobbs. Um
moved and seconded. All those in favor
signify by saying I.
>> I.
>> Okay. Motion passes. Congratulations.
You'll get a written decision within 45
days.
>> Thank you.
>> Thank you. And with that, Mr. Fipps, you
can conclude the meeting tonight.
>> So, I'll make a motion to basically uh
adjourn. Second.
>> All in favor? Uh-huh.
More transcripts
Explore other videos transcribed with YouTLDR.

DEUS COMO VOCÊ NUNCA VIU | Pr. Sezar Cavalcante
Sezar Cavalcante · Portuguese (Portugal, Brazil)

Você não gosta da regra… ou não sabe pra que ela serve? | #109
EAG Educação · Portuguese (Portugal, Brazil)

Classic Service: May 19, 2001
First Baptist Church of Plano · English

إطلالة على منهاج التعامل مع القرآن
مركز العلم والعمل للتعليم عن بعد · English

Mecanismos de Acción de Insecticidas y su papel en el MIP
EGUEZ ENRIQUEZ ERICK ALBERTO · English

A ILÍADA e a ODISSEIA de Homero (COMPLETO) A História das MAIORES Aventuras ÉPICAS da Mitologia
Foca na História · English

Khutbah Jumat Nabawi Subtitle Indonesia | 13 Mei 2022 M | Syaikh Abdullah Al-Bu'ayjaan
Hunafa Indonesia · English

O Segredo Que Faz Time QUERER Bater Meta | Conversa de CEO 113
EAG Educação · Portuguese (Portugal, Brazil)

Karier di Bidang Industri Kuliner (Dasar-Dasar Kuliner) SMK Kuliner
Masakmas · English

NR449 Mod4 Nov24
Lisa South · English

Asfixia Perinatal
MayGhis Guizada · Spanish

JUARA 1 PIDATO SUNDA BANTEN JENJANG SD, FTBI SEPROVINSI BANTEN DAN DKI JAKARTA TAHUN 2024
Kantor Bahasa Provinsi Banten · Indonesian
Get the TLDR of any YouTube video
Transcribe, summarize, and repurpose videos in 125+ languages — free, no signup required.