(EMAILWIRE.COM, April 20, 2013 ) Victoria, Australia -- The Evanston Zoning Board of appeals tabled a discussion on the lakefront bed-and-breakfast proposed by a local billionaire after a lengthy meeting.
The issue was on James N. Pritzker's push to add the establishment was given some extra weight after the incumbent Ald. Judy Fisk criticized her challenger Edward Tivador for his accepting of donations from Pritzker's partner during the zoning application. The application is still yet to come up before the City Council pending the board's zoning vote.
Nearly 25 people, including Fiske, attended the meeting at the Lorraine M. Morton Civic Center to discuss the planned five-room bed-and-breakfast that will be located on the Evanston's Lakeshore Historic District and in a special single-family zoning area.
Andre Scott, who stands as attorney for Pritzker, had a representative architecture firm testify regarding the restoration plans on the existing structure, which would consolidate the historic house. The property was purchased for more than $2 million, and the costs of renovations would cost an additional $5.5 million. One board member questioned how the business could ever be considered profitable given those high numbers.
When he was pressed to answer, Scott stated that Pritzker was a preservationist and noted the project as a “labor of love”, then presenting a study by the local real estate officials that maintained the business ' potential impact would bring positive value to the area.
The board members inquired regarding the relationship of Pritzker's partner, Daw Overen, in regards to the bed-and-breakfast. Overend will live in the house in order to comply with zoning regulations, but owns less than 5% of the company operating and business.
During citizens comments, several residents stood in opposition to the bed-and-breakfast, citing potential negative effects on the area.
To do it a second time, right on the same block is stunning,” said Northwestern psychology Prof. Alice Eagly, who lives nearby. “It will change the character of the neighborhood. It’s not what the framers of the ordinance had in mind.”
About TuckInn.com.au
Tuck Inn (http://www.tuckinn.com.au/) provides information on the best bed and breakfast in Healsville. Learn about the fantastic prices on accommodation healesville, and get to know the area through the easy-to-navigate website.