Board of Zoning Appeals October 8, 2026

The City of Elkhart Board of Zoning Appeals met on October 8, 2026, to consider land-use and development variances. The board approved the 2027 calendar and heard petitions involving residential and business uses, accessory dwelling units, setbacks, landscaping, fences, and signs. It approved the dog-grooming use at 2625 Warren Street, with a two-year review condition discussed; approved residential use of the existing structures at 1125 Thornton Street subject to permits and staff conditions; and approved a sidewalk-related variance at 2619 Greenleaf Boulevard with a condition that the owner not oppose future city sidewalk installation. The board also approved an amended porch/setback proposal at 604 Marl Avenue and approved some, but denied other, requested variances for 316 State Street, including conditions for permits and safety-related work. The petitions concerning landscaping at 4908 Elkhart East Boulevard and accessory buildings at East Beardsley Avenue were tabled.

The board considered a proposed gas station and convenience store at 3621 South Nappanee Street, for which staff recommended denial, but the transcript does not capture a final decision. It also heard a request by Hilltop Company LLC for an off-premise wall sign at 121 South Main Street; staff recommended denial, and the transcript ends before the board’s decision. The meeting addressed zoning and property-use matters rather than public purchasing, contract awards, or procurement; no procurement activity was identified.