Jasper Board of Zoning Appeals: January 3, 2024

The Jasper Board of Zoning Appeals met in regular session on Wednesday night in their first public hearing of 2024. The first item on the agenda was to appoint officers, which prepared the board for the business of the new year. 

 The first zoning request before the board was a request for a variance to convert the old Macado’s restaurant into a two-family dwelling, as well as to have two primary structures on the same lot. The owners have attempted to rent the space, but feel that it would be better used as a multi-family dwelling after some renovations. A site plan will be required when the building permit application is submitted, but the variances for the zoning modification were approved.

 An additional request that came before the board highlighted some unexpected conflict between residents. The owner of U Lucky Dog grooming shop, Charlotte Weeks, explained that she had a dog grooming business on the Riverwalk for years. She closed her commercial space due to health concerns, but requested a variance to be able to perform grooming services by appointment only from her home. Several neighbors voiced strong opposition over concerns about the impact that her business is already having on the neighborhood, especially as it is located on a one-lane gravel road that is privately maintained. In discussion, the board expressed serious concerns over an existing, unlicensed breeding business, Pandora Doodles. There are also code violations attached to the number of animals currently in the home. As there are already unresolved concerns regarding the number of animals on the property and the adherence to code restrictions, the board chose to deny the request for the variance. 

 For more information on these and other updates, visit jasperindiana.gov or JasperGov-Indiana on Facebook.