Jurisdiction: Board of Zoning Appeals
Being a continuation of a public hearing on the matter of an application filed by The Flower Bin Inc. and Smalls Sliders, requesting variances from the terms of the City of Muncie Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, to allow reduced foundation plantings on the east side of the building, and to allow a reduced front greenbelt, all for a new restaurant on a corridor road, on premises located at 211 West McGalliard Road, Muncie, Indiana, as more accurately described in the application.
Ella Rose, appeared to represent the applicant. She stated that she was a resident of Delaware County and a Ball State graduate and that they were excited to bring the first Smalls Sliders to Indiana. She stated that she wanted the board to understand that they wanted the sidewalk for safe pedestrian travel which was the reason for the landscape request.
Bill Terry, Weighe Engineering, appeared to represent the applicant. He stated that there was not enough room for the landscaping due to the drive-thru and that they had placed 2 trees on the north and 3 trees on the east side to help with the landscaping. He also stated that they had also changed the plans to meet the façade material requirement as well as the loading and unloading area.
Ms. Fritch stated that the plans still show the un-natural material for the façade.
Mr. Terry stated that it was now hardy board with a stone feature at the bottom.
Mayor Ridenour appeared in support and stated that they had worked with the City Engineer, and that they appreciated the investment in the community and believed this would be a fun place to visit and was hopeful for a favorable vote.
No one appeared in opposition.
Ms. Swackhamer stated that they had worked with staff to remove some of the variance requests and that they were installing a 6’ sidewalk based on conversations with City Engineer Mr. Leach. She stated that Mr. Rawlings had agreed that the plans were of good quality and that emails from Mr. Leach and Ms. Pruitt had been provided with their approval.
Ms. Fritch made a motion to approve BZA 10-26 the appeal filed by the Flower Bin Inc., and Smalls Sliders, with the hardship as stated in the application with the following conditions; 1) That the applicant will work with staff to submit an approved site plan or seek additional variances; and 2) That all necessary approvals, such as the Fire Department, Health Department, Building Commissioner, City Engineer, etc., be granted before business begins. Ms. Knapp seconded the motion. Voting in favor: Mr. Billington, Ms. Fritch, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Hinds, Mr. Ivy, Ms. Knapp, and Ms. Mathewson. Voting against: None. Motion carried (7-0), BZA 10-26 approved.