SUBJECT: Request to Initiate a Text Amendment to allow caretaker’s unit as an accessory use in the m-1 zone

Background

Attached is a letter from Mr. Ray Sulser from Hunt Enterprises requesting that the City Council consider amending the Zoning Ordinance to add "caretaker’s unit" as a permitted accessory use in the M-1 Zone. Hunt Enterprises is the company converting the old Body Glove manufacturing building to a self storage warehouse at 530 6th Street.

The City Council recently amended the permitted use list for the M-1 zone, including the elimination of the self-storage warehouse as permitted uses, which has made the facility at 530 6 ^th Street and other self-storage buildings legal nonconforming uses.

Analysis

A caretaker’s unit within the M-1 zone would currently not be permitted as it would be a residential use (likely containing a bedroom and kitchen), nor is it specifically listed as a as a permitted accessory use to any type of manufacturing use. The Council could initiate an amendment to either allow caretaker’s units as accessory to any use in the M-1 zone, or specific to particular uses only, such as self-storage facilities. The use could also be subject to the granting of a Conditional Use Permit. To allow as a specific accessory use to self-storage would require re-instating self-storage warehouse as a permitted use in the M-1 zone.

Staff is not aware of any special need for housing a caretaker at this facility or any other manufacturing use. Security can be provided from an on-site office on a 24-hour basis, or from a remote location. Staff is not sure what security benefit is added by providing sleeping areas, and/or kitchens.

Recommendation

To receive and file the request.

Agendas / Minutes Menu     Agenda