CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Pass the ordinance approving a variance to Section 6-7D-4 to allow a general service use (Lovesac) to be located below the second floor in the B4 District at 12 W. Jefferson Avenue - PZC 20-1-10
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DEPARTMENT: Transportation, Engineering and Development
SUBMITTED BY: Gabrielle Mattingly, Community Planner
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
The Planning and Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing on February 19,2020 and provided a positive recommendation on the request (approved 6,0). Staff concurs.
BACKGROUND:
The subject property is located near the intersection of Washington Street and Jefferson Avenue with a common street address of 12 W. Jefferson Avenue. The property consists of approximately 3,250 square feet, with a 1,400 square foot tenant space on the first floor and is improved with an existing multi-tenant commercial building. The subject tenant space was formerly occupied by Serendipity Resale Shop and is located between Naper Nuts and Sweets to the east and Two Brothers Barrel House to the west. The subject property is zoned B4 (Downtown Core District).
DISCUSSION:
The proposed business, Lovesac is a furniture company that sells sectional couches, foam beanbag chairs, and other home d?cor accessories. The petitioner seeks to operate a showroom with a retail component in the existing tenant space on the subject property. Per Municipal Code Section 6-7D-4 (B4: Required Conditions), a variance is required to permit a showroom, which is classified as a general service, on the first floor in the B4 District.
The B4 District permits retail, eating and drinking establishments and commercial services (which includes banks, beauty shops/salons, and dry cleaning) on any floor of a building. It also allows general services, such as showrooms, but restricts their location to the second floor. The objective of this restriction is to provide opportunities for retail type businesses on the street level tha...
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