Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

SE-18-06-056 — GABRIEL PADILLA

Request: Special Exception to locate a religious institution in a portion of an existing structure in the P-O zoning district.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff noted that the subject property was two (2) units of a four (4) unit condominium. The first unit was the office for the pastor, which is permitted by right, the second is the office of a medical doctor, and the last two (2) units will be the sanctuary for up to 120 worshipers. There will be no exterior alterations, and the religious institution will be using the neighboring daycare to the north for shared parking. Staff was recommending that there be a pedestrian connection between the two properties to facilitate safe access, and that the existing hedge be completed to the driveway. The applicant indicated their agreement with the staff recommendation and conditions. There being no one present to speak for or against the application, the public hearing was closed. There was some discussion of traffic impacts due to the presence of several other churches in the area. Staff explained that the use was a off-peak hour traffic attractor operating at some of the lowest periods of traffic flow. The BZA found that the use was compatible with the neighborhood, and consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. A motion to recommend approval of the Special Exception passed by a vote of 5-1.