concept was named the fastest growing concept in the country in 2023 and that this would be the first location in Indiana of 18 proposed.
No one appeared in opposition.
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 condition that the applicant continue to work with staff to submit an approved site plan or seek additional variances. Ms. Knapp seconded the motion. Voting in favor: Mr. Billington, Mr. Hamilton, and Ms. Knapp. Voting against: Ms. Fritch and Ms. Mathewson. Motion failed, BZA 10-26 to be automatically continued to the April 30, 2026 meeting.
Being 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 of 23’ rather than 17’ for a variance of 6’ for a new pole barn, 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 .98 acres at a dead end in the neighborhood, and that the proposed building would be 36’ x 64’ x 23’ for storage of his RV. He stated that due to the height of the RV he needed the taller side walls to accommodate the garage doors. He stated that he had made many improvements to the property over the past 5 years that he had lived there and was only looking to improve the value. He stated that he had spent $10,000 planting a wall of arborvitae evergreens that will grow 15-18 feet tall and will look nice.
Ms. Mathewson asked if he ever planned to use the building for business use.
Mr. Hiatt stated no.
Ms. Mathewson asked if Mr. Hiatt had heard any concerns from any of the neighbors.
Mr. Hiatt stated no, but several had reached out in support. He stated that he had tried to communicate with every adjacent property that he could since he had been working on the project since October because he was not aware he needed a variance.
Ms. Fritch asked about the screening along Tillotson Avenue.
Mr. Hiatt stated that 15 arborvitae evergreens had been planted to provide screening, similar to the Applewood Condos on Tillotson Avenue.