employees and multiple clients. They also share the current available parking spaces with outside providers, such as massage therapists and attorneys.
Mrs. Gowdy inquired whether all full-time employees serve clients. Ms. McCoy said that six full-time employees currently have clients. She also noted that the business hosts monthly events with attendance of up to 60 individuals.
Mr. Lauterbach asked how parking is currently managed. Ms. McCoy stated that employees are required to park off-site at the nearby synagogue. She added that parking challenges are heightened during tax season due to shared use with individuals dropping off tax documents.
Mr. Finley asked the applicant why they were not using a closer, existing parking lot instead of the synagogue’s parking lot. Ms. McCoy explained that they had previously used that lot but were asked to stop because they were taking up too many spaces. Mr. Finley inquired why the proposed parking lot expansion was not included in the original application. Ms. McCoy responded that, in hindsight, the expansion should have been included in a prior application, noting that multiple clients utilize the same parking area daily.
Mr. Finley requested clarification on whether the long-term plan is to expand the existing building rather than relocate as the business grows. The applicant confirmed that expansion of the current facility is the intended plan.
Mr. Lauterbach asked whether any research has been conducted regarding noise reduction. Ms. McCoy stated that the topic had been discussed in previous meetings; however, no additional research has been completed to date.
Mrs. Gowdy inquired whether there are any plans to install sound equipment. Ms. McCoy responded that there are no such plans.
Carol Nevins, 25 E. Schantz Avenue, stated that she is an active pickleball player and noted the sport’s growing popularity, often requiring travel to access courts. She indicated that noise can be mitigated through alternative equipment and expressed the opinion that the proposed landscaping would help reduce sound. She further stated that the proposed hours of operation appear reasonable.
Steve Byington, 24 W. Schantz Avenue, stated he has no concerns about the parking lot expansion, noting it reflects a successful business and benefits the community. However, he opposes the pickleball court, stating that it is unnecessary for operations, would likely create noise impacts not adequately mitigated, is incompatible with the nearby residential neighborhood, and does not align with community standards or the Oakwood vision statement. He added that the proposal prioritizes business interests over neighborhood character.
Garrett Orlowski, 205 Pointe Oakwood Way, stated that Mr. Byington had already addressed many of his concerns. He emphasized that pickleball is a loud sport and the proposed hours of operations within a valley would travel. He also raised concerns about potential impacts on property values and noted existing drainage issues on Pointe Oakwood Way, expressing hope that the City is continuing to address them.
Jeff Lanning, 619 Woods Road, stated that he is a current client of Russell Total Wealth and Wellness and supports the proposal. He indicated that a pickleball court would be consistent with the neighborhood, noting the presence of other courts in Oakwood, and commented that general