12-10-1992 Public Hearing and Regular Meeting ZBOA

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Zoning Board of Adjustment Special Exception Request SE92-006 Page 2 of 3 It should be noted that given the church's location in an R-1 Zone, a Special Conditional Use Permit must be obtained prior to the construction of the new facility. The Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council must review and consider approval of the Conditional Use Permit. The use of off- premise parking will be considered by the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council as part of their review. The sole determination to be made by the Board concerns the number of parking spaces to be required. This determination is a necessary precursor to action on the Special Conditional Use Permit. Analysis: Zoning Ordinance Section 11-605.2.C allows the Board of Adjustment to "waive or reduce off street parking ... requirements when the Board finds the same are necessary for the proposed use of the building or structure ...". The Zion Hill request falls within the guidelines of this section and is therefore, eligible for the Board's consideration. The Ordinance also charges the Board to grant special exceptions only when "such special exception will not adversely affect the value and use of adjacent property or be contrary to the best public interest". As noted, the Zion Hill Church has existed in this location since 1903. The church primarily serves and draws its congregation from the surrounding residential neighborhood. To date, the parking provided at the De Walt school appears to have been adequate to meet the church's needs. When constructed, the new sanctuary will seat approximately 20 more people than the existing church. Any impact on parking resulting from the new building should be minimal. Granting this exception should not have any tangible effect on the value or use of the neighboring properties or be contrary to the best public interest.