Colfax approves design review permit, variance for Gordan's Gym

The Colfax City Council approved the design review permit and a variance for the proposed Gordan's Gym at 159 Auburn Street on Oct. 22. The applicant, Gordan Allen, is proposing to construct a 6,890 square-foot structure for the exercise facility, the staff report notes. Kathy Pease, Colfax's planning consultant, advised the facility would include enclosed areas for various operations like an office, aerobics and martial arts, as well as an open-gym area which allows for weight lifting and aerobic training. A variance is included in the proposal for reduced side and rear setbacks, as the zoning ordinance requires additional setbacks when adjacent to residential. Pease confirmed setbacks are 10 feet for the front and rear setbacks and five feet for the side. The project proposes four-foot setbacks for the side and rear. Pease also advised normally 16 on-site parking spaces would be required for the project due to the one space per 150 square feet requirement, but only five on-site spaces are being proposed with 13 spaces available on Auburn and Oak streets as a result of site constraints. Councilmember Trinity Burruss asked if the applicant has worked with the neighboring church regarding access to its parking lot. Allen confirmed there has been discussion and the intention is to come to a conclusion about the matter. The council received three comments in support of the gym being built, with commenters noting street parking could be an issue and the hope of the addition of the gym slowing down traffic. Burruss suggested new curb paint to ensure clarity and Mayor Sean Lomen confirmed the city will ensure enforceability if there are parking issues. Burruss also suggested painting speed bump illusions on S Auburn Street to assist with slowing down traffic and protect pedestrians who would be going to the gym. The council approved the design review permit and variance in a unanimous vote.