06-27-16 Zoning and Annexation - Laserfiche WebLink

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Committeemember John Voorde asked what sort of signage restriction there are in Local Business zoned areas. Angela Smith responded it would be restricted to a six (6) foot monument sign of approximately sixty -four (64) square feet or less. Councilmember Tim Scott asked if the building is currently occupied. Ms. Kimbrough responded no it is currently unused and has been vacant for at least two (2) years. Those from the public wishing to speak in favor of Bill 20 -16: Darnell O'Neil, 2730 Lincolnway West, stated he has no problem with this business going into that location. Mr. O'Neil stated he cannot understand why she is facing so many difficulties getting this going. At each chance possible it feels like the City is throwing up something different to impede the rezoning. First it was the argument that we want all our local businesses together but on Lincolnway we are never going to have that. Across the street is a vacant commercial lot for sale and it makes no sense that just across the street you can't have commercial. This is really the best of both worlds because this is a residential house that will retain its look but also supporting business on Lincolnway. Gary James Batteaste, Pastor of New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, spoke in favor of the rezoning. He stated Ms. Kimbrough is one of his parishioners and one of the best parishioners in the entire church. One of the issues he has is that the City is so determined to keep her from opening this business. Mr. Batteaste expressed his belief that Palmers Funeral Home is putting pressure on the City because they want to purchase the property for their parking. The African - American Community has really embraced Palmers in that location and it would be very disheartening if they were trying to keep an African - American business moving into the area. Regis Goodman, 68051 Telegraph Court Lakeville IN, spoke in favor of the rezoning. He also stated disbelief on why this is so difficult for her to get this done. He stated the petitioner is just trying to follow her dreams and be successful and she's being blocked. Jeff Dylan Kimbrough, 121 North Carlisle Street South Bend, stated Janice Kimbrough is doing something positive for our community and we should all embrace that. Those wishing to speak in opposition: Professor Judak, 2805 Humble Street, spoke against the rezoning. He stated he is about one (1) block from the property. Mr. Judak gave a brief explanation of what the area used to look like and how it has gone down in quality over the years. The problem is the properties across from this property in question. The auto company has had numerous code violations. There are vacant lots all around the area as well and these are real problems. The neighbors are concerned about businesses coming in and changing the character of the neighborhood even more. 11