Lyla's response to interest in commercial development at 2513 Woodland

A message from longtime Woodland Heights neighbor, Lyla:  

Please pass this information along to any party of interest including people at (the April 20, 2021) meeting of the WHO.

At (the April 20, 2021) meeting of the WHO there was much support for taking this building (2513 Woodland Ave.) back to small commercial. I do not think that the city would allow this because it would be "spot zoning" which is illegal and there is no availability for off street parking which is required under zoning...for either commercial or residential use. The neighbors could fight the city to allow for this type of use...but that process would take many months, and require several public hearing processes and much conflict.

Chapter 134-7.2.6 of the Des Moines Zoning Code:  If a nonconforming use in a N district (single family homes) is discontinued for more than one year for any reason whatsoever, the nonconforming use is deemed abandoned and may not be re-established.

This property has been vacant for over 20 years and lost its legal nonconforming status that can not be re-established.

There was discussion by two adjoining neighbors saying they would be interested in acquiring the property to expand their property. This may be a possibility but they would have to pay for the property and the cost of demolition of the structure. My best estimate would be $30,000 - 40,000 to do this. (could split the cost) Most people do not have this kind of money up front but they could possibly refinance their homes to acquire the land and demolition costs. This process could take a year if allowed.

The NFC could start building a new home (using same footprint) this fall if they can receive 2 exceptions from the city on "set back" requirements for the front of the house and the driveway.

###