# Porter County Government - Board of Zoning Appeals - September 16th, 2026

The Porter County Government Board of Zoning Appeals met on September 16, 2026, to consider several zoning and development cases involving variances and special exceptions. Key procurement-related discussions centered on the Family Express Corporation's proposal to develop a new gas station and convenience store at the southeast corner of US Highway 6 and Calumet Avenue in Valparaiso. The board reviewed requests for variances to allow fuel pumps and canopies in front yards, building setbacks outside the US 6 overlay envelope, and elimination of sidewalk requirements, as well as a special exception to permit septic and well systems instead of municipal utilities due to prohibitive connection costs. Public concerns were raised about drainage, tree removal, lighting, and potential impacts on neighboring properties. Family Express committed to addressing these concerns, including buffering and future sidewalk installation if adjacent properties develop. The board approved the variances and special exception with conditions requiring connection to municipal utilities if they become available and sidewalks to be installed when adjoining properties have sidewalks. Other cases included approval of a farmers market operation with conditions and a custom woodworking shop use variance renewal. The meeting involved motions and unanimous votes on all procurement-related items.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Professional Services
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 15, 2026

### Sources
- [Porter County Government - Board of Zoning Appeals - September 16th, 2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjKd2CyPSOg) - Porter County Government