KenCairn moved to approve the Findings of the October 9, 2001 meeting, Kistler seconded the motion and the Findings were approved.

KenCairn worked on the original proposal but is not currently working on this one.

Knox said that even though Staff is recommending approval, the applicant may come back with a completely different application.

Kistler said there is a problem with this development and several other developments in Ashland because of inadequate turning radius and pulling in and backing out of the garages.

This action was approved.

Site Visits and Ex Parte Contacts - Site visits were made by all.

The proposal is to modify the existing traveler’s accommodation from six units to seven units (includes the owner’s unit). The site is at the corner of C and Third Streets. The existing house consists of four guest units and the owner’s unit. Under this proposal, the owner’s unit will become a guest unit and the owners will move into the house on the front lot at 119.

With regard to the Conditional Use Permit, the applicants meet criteria A and B. The buildings are all existing. The main issue is whether or not there is an impact on the neighborhood in relation to the target use of the property. If you combine the two properties, the target use is four residential units. Staff does not believe there will be any greater generation of traffic. However, there is a potential loss of an existing rental unit and a greater concentration of commercial uses in the neighborhood. There is an Exhibit A that shows the concentration of commercial uses. Losing rental units seems to be happening more and more and Staff wanted to make the Commissioners aware of this. It is becoming more common to convert single family houses to either offices or traveler’s accommodations. Harris believes this will be an issue raised at a study session to look at the ordinances.

Harris asked that when a unit that has been used as a rental unit with those same people integrating into the neighborhood, what effect does that have on the property when it changes? In this case it is the owners so they have an interest in the neighborhood. If it was becoming a guest unit, what would that do to the neighborhood? KenCairn wondered if they could make that unit a guest unit. Harris said they are not allowed to do that without asking for another modification.

TONY REBELLO, 111 Third Street, said they want to move into the little house and that would be their permanent house. They will upgrade the landscaping.

KenCairn has no problem with this application. She believes the top half of this block is commercial. She sees stopping the encroachment would be a good think to do.

Knox said it is getting difficult for Staff to know where to draw the boundary. He believes a study session is important to figure out what the boundaries are and what concentration of commercial is appropriate.

Kistler moved to approve PA2001-107. KenCairn seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.