Every strategy you described, gets you less than a 0.1% conversion rate.

I've read through the General Plan and there is nothing else that broadens or limits this description that I can find.Generally speaking, does this mean that I should have ministerial approval to perform a condo conversion of these already-built-out units in the same sense that I would have ministerial approval to submit plans for a new construction condos if the land were still vacant?  

As for the rental, generally, we'll need to register with the city and they might come with inspection (happened twice to us) so make sure that the conversion is up to code and the list of the requirements are met. 

My suggestion is you can do a lot of networking + conversation's virtually.

I am thinking anything from simple level camping pads for tent, van conversion, or RV use.

I appreciate the encouragement to bring a historical perspective to the conversation. 

OP should find a very experienced short sale agent locally and have a conversation.

This was confirmed for me in 2000 in a conversation I had with the then in existence Texas Savings and Loan Commission which had over seer authority over private lending.

I did auctions for a part of my 10 year career when I thought flipping homes or doing condo conversions were the way to go. then I got into ground up construction and national construction and ground up is the way to go.

I think at least in my circumstances it boils down to self discipline and perseverance. we had this conversation at work.