Avoid, too, the issue of whether the tiny houses should be parked elsewhere in the city, staff recommends.

The April 18 report was prepared as the proposal heads to the city Plan Commission on April 28 for review as a planned development. Planning staff advise it is possible for the plan commission to recommend approval of the plan to the City Council, but urge making input by neighbors part of the decision.

Occupy Madison has an option to purchase property at 2046-2050 E. Johnson, site of Sanchez Auto Body, and expand the 1,305-square-foot repair garage for use as headquarters of the organization. The 2,405-square-foot renovated building would include a workshop for construction of the tiny houses, offices, storage and a small retail space. Residential facilities in the building would include four bathrooms, two showers and a kitchen/lounge room. Community gardens and a greenhouse also are planned for the property.

Planners recommend that the Plan Commission impose a number of conditions for approval including development of a detailed resident selection, conflict resolution and eviction processes, and that the city maintain jurisdiction of operation of the site.