A council variance application for 2424 Steele Avenue in Columbus, Ohio, was recommended for disapproval by the Greater Hilltop Area Commission, though city staff supported the request. The variance sought to permit a two-unit dwelling in an R-3 Residential District, where such use is typically not allowed, and to reduce the minimum side yard along the western property line from five feet to 4.33 feet. The 0.17-acre site is currently an abandoned lot, and the owner has invested in significant landscaping. Surrounding properties include single-unit and two-unit dwellings. The Hilltop Land Use Plan (2019) suggests 'Medium–High Density Residential' (16-24 du/ac) for the area, aligning with the proposed density. The applicant, Saul Dimas Nonato, argued that the variance was essential for developing the two-family dwelling and addressing the existing dilapidated basement. Despite staff support and consistency with land use plans, the Greater Hilltop Area Commission voted 5-8 against the duplex variance and 4-9 against the side yard variance, highlighting community concerns about parking, street safety, and property maintenance.