BZA 12-26
Jurisdiction: Board of Zoning Appeals

Being a continuation of a public hearing on the matter of an application filed by Chris Hiatt, requesting a variance from the terms of the City of Muncie Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, to allow an increased height for a new building, on premises located at 2812 West Burgewood Drive, Muncie, Indiana, as more accurately described in the application.

Chris Hiatt, 2812 W. Burgewood Dr., Muncie, Indiana, appeared. He stated that he owned just under 1 acre and intended to build the structure to hold his vehicle that would require 16’ sidewalls and would be more than permitted. He stated that the building was 36’ x40’, would have 12 windows, 3 services doors, and be insulated. He stated that he had invested in 50 trees along Tillotson Avenue to help with screening and that the building would match the color of his house. He stated that he had spoken to some of the neighbors and had a letter of support with their signatures.

Ms. Mathewson asked for clarification that Christopher Hiatt was also Chris Hiatt.

Mr. Hiatt stated yes.

Commissioner Brand appeared in support and stated that if anyone looked at Mr. Hiatt’s properties, they would see that he was concerned with how things looked and that he was proactive with the installation of the screening of evergreens and he encouraged the board to vote in favor.

Mark Merdue, 2808 W. Burgewood Dr., Muncie, Indiana, appeared in support. He stated that they were not good friends, but that they did know each other from the neighborhood and that Mr. Hiatt kept his property well maintained. He stated that Mr. Hiatt helped plow in the winter and had replaced a broken fence in the area at his own expense. He stated that Mr. Hiatt attends the neighborhood picnics and that he had been talking about the proposed building for almost a year. He stated that when the gravel was being placed, Mr. Hiatt discovered that there was an issue with the height but that it was no secret that he planned to build. He stated that the building would in the properties back yard and that he did not believe it would detract from the quality of the neighborhood or decrease any property values.

Mr. Hiatt mentioned that a 2-story house was allowed in the zone.

Mayor Ridenour appeared in support and stated that the city was well aware of the quality of work and the amount of maintenance the applicant puts into his properties.

No one appeared in opposition.

Ms. Swackhamer stated they had received a petition signed by 18 people in support of the request. She also stated that Mr. Rawlings stated that Mr. Hiatt had been working with his office and had taken extra measures by planting the trees.