Warren Township panel denies construction zoning request despite local support

A proposed zoning change in Indianapolis has sparked significant debate, as the Metropolitan Development Commission Hearing Examiner reviewed a request for an industrial zoning designation that many believe is inappropriate for the area. The petitioner, Justin Alexander of Alexander Construction, seeks to rezone a 4.37-acre site from C-5 to I-2 to establish a contractor's operational headquarters. This request includes variances for outdoor storage and reduced transitional yard requirements, which have raised concerns among local residents and city staff.

During the April 24 meeting, attorney David Rutherford, representing Alexander, emphasized that the site would primarily serve as a maneuvering area for equipment, with only two trailers permitted for outdoor storage. He argued that the proposed use aligns with the industrial nature of surrounding properties and that the current C-5 zoning is not suitable for the site, which is near residential areas and a school.

Despite Rutherford's assurances and letters of support from nearby residents, city staff recommended denial of the request, citing excessive outdoor storage allowances and insufficient transitional yards. Staff highlighted that the proposed I-2 zoning would undermine existing protections for nearby residential districts, which are intended to prevent industrial encroachment.

The hearing examiner expressed skepticism about the appropriateness of the I-2 designation, noting that the numerous variances requested suggest the site may not be suitable for the intended use. The case will be further reviewed by the Metropolitan Development Commission on May 21, where the community's concerns and the petitioner's arguments will continue to be weighed.