Bremen Church Seeks Property Vacation to Expand Recreational Space

The recent Plan Commission Meeting held on July 24, 2025, in Marshall County, Indiana, focused on a significant vacation request from the Bremen Missionary Church, which aims to expand its facilities and improve safety for its congregation. The meeting highlighted both support and concerns from community members regarding the proposed changes.

Ron Stichter, vice chairman of the church board, presented the church's case, emphasizing the need for additional yard space for recreational activities and parking. Currently landlocked by four roads, the church has limited outdoor space, primarily occupied by its septic system. Stichter explained that acquiring adjacent properties would allow for future expansion and enhance safety by reducing the need for church members to cross busy streets.

Community member Brandon Grant expressed a neutral stance but acknowledged potential benefits of the project. As a school teacher and parent, he noted that the proposed changes could reduce traffic speed on local roads, enhancing safety for children, especially during school bus pick-up times. Grant highlighted the current dangers posed by drivers bypassing school buses, suggesting that the vacation could help mitigate these risks.

However, concerns were raised about water drainage issues associated with the church's expansion. Sandy Bellenrod, a nearby resident, voiced her apprehension regarding how changes to the land could affect water flow, referencing past drainage problems that arose when the church was initially established. She urged the commission to consider these environmental impacts seriously.

The meeting underscored the balancing act local officials face in accommodating community growth while addressing safety and environmental concerns. As discussions continue, the commission will need to evaluate the implications of the church's request on both the immediate neighborhood and the broader community.

Next steps will likely involve further assessments of the drainage concerns raised and potential modifications to the proposal to ensure that community needs are met while allowing for the church's expansion plans. The outcome of this request could set a precedent for future developments in the area, highlighting the importance of community engagement in local governance.