Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting (June 9, 2026)

The Zoning Board of Adjustment met on June 9, 2026, to hear a use variance application from Blue Coral Canal LLC for a property at 20 Canal Street. The board unanimously approved the variance, adding one additional residential unit to an existing three-unit building. Other agenda items included a postponement and approval of prior minutes.

Consent Calendar

• Approved the minutes of the meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, as presented. Motion by Mr. Lionel, seconded by Mr. Shaw. All in favor.

Postponed Cases

• The Salt Creek Properties LLC and Cutter Place Properties LLC case was postponed to July 14, 2026. Motion by Mr. Lionel, seconded by Mr. Shaw. The motion passed unanimously. This included both the use variance and special exception for the case in total.

Discussion Items

• Blue Coral Canal LLC Variance Application: The applicant's representative, Michael Corda of Benchmark Designs, presented the proposal to add a sixth residential unit to an existing three-unit building at 20 Canal Street (LB zone, ward three). Two additional units had been approved earlier in the year but not yet constructed. The new unit would be placed over an existing flat-roof structure, creating a fire safety platform that improves egress for three units. The building would have 14 available parking spots. Proposed unit sizes: lower level garage 507 sq. ft., upper level garage 759 sq. ft., and new structure 615 sq. ft. Bedrooms: two units would have two bedrooms, one unit would have one bedroom. The applicant also provided an updated survey and fire safety walkway plans. No members of the public spoke for or against the application.

Key Outcomes

• Vote: The board granted the use variance unanimously. Motion by Mr. Neely, seconded by Mr. Shaw.
• Rationale: The variance would not be contrary to the public interest; the area is relatively dense and a six-unit building is in character with the neighborhood. The spirit of the ordinance is observed. The proposal improves fire safety and does not change the building's footprint. Substantial justice is served because the request is consistent with other nearby houses. There is ample parking (14 spaces), and surrounding property values would not be diminished. The hardship arises from the building's unusual shape and unused garage area, and the project adds affordable housing stock (500–700 sq. ft. units) consistent with city goals.
• Appeal Window: 30 days from the decision.
• Next Steps: The applicant is free to proceed with construction.