Land Use Update - June 2022

In late April, a Petition for Variance for non-permitted commercial use was filed for the property located at 10195 E 86th Street. CASE No. 2022-UV3-008 was scheduled to be heard May 24th, but SRA requested a continuance, to allow time to speak with abutting property owners and the petitioner to learn more about the proposal.

The petitioner, his lawyer, and several neighbors attended the SRA Board meeting on June 14th, and a productive conversation took place. The petitioner was very open to discussion about how to alter his Operating Plan to appease neighbors who expressed concern over the potential increase in traffic and noise, as well as the appearance of precedence that allowing a commercial use in a residential property might bring. However, after listening to the petitioner's plans and taking feedback from neighbors, SRA came to the decision that we could not support the proposed use and planned to remonstrate at the zoning board hearing. As of June 21st, the petitioner officially withdrew his request for variance - a strong "win" for the Mud Creek Valley community.

The SRA Land Use Group monitors proposed development in the SRA service area to promote responsible planning as designated by the city of Indianapolis. According to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan of Marion County, a large portion of the Mud Creek Valley has been designated “Rural or Estate Neighborhood” - thanks to the valuable input from SRA and the community to make that designation happen. SRA recognizes the rights of property owners, but strongly advocates to protect the unique nature of our local landscape - preserving this valuable asset for the next generation.

If you have a land use concern in the area, we encourage you to speak with the property owner, review the Indy.gov information page on Zoning, Variance, and Land Use Petitions, or contact us for information.