Lorain · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lorain public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Short-term rental parking variance on Washington Avenue
A short-term rental operator is seeking to waive every required parking space for a property in an R-2 Transitional Residential district. Neighbors may be concerned about street parking demand and how the rental license rules are enforced. The board's decision will set a local precedent for how parking requirements apply to short-term rentals.
Fence Height and Drainage Standards on Lakefront Properties
Neighbors clashed over whether a vinyl fence exceeding the six-foot limit by a few inches violates city code or qualifies as a minor variation necessary for property drainage near the lake.
Amateur Radio Antenna Height Regulations
Homeowners wanting to put up a 35-foot radio antenna ran into city height caps for accessory structures. The board is working with them to figure out a fair variance process that respects federal and state amateur radio protections.
Side Yard Swimming Pool Variance
A resident requested a variance to place a swimming pool and deck in the side yard at 1811 W 44th St because the backyard is filled with mature trees. City staff opposed the request based on code restrictions, but the board approved it.
Zoning Reclassification for West 15th Street Deli
Property owner Saul Plaza Serrano received planning support to rezone 516 W. 15th Street from residential to commercial, allowing him to open a neighborhood deli and convenience store downstairs while living upstairs.
Commercial Driveway and Traffic Flow at 214 E. 34th St.
Reliable Holdings sought a driveway variance to establish a one-way traffic pattern for their facility, which prompted concerns from neighboring residents about street condition and parking.