Commission backs rezoning but denies liquor and convenience‑store permits for 2380 Sheriff Road

The Planning Commission on Aug. 20 approved a rezoning from C‑1 to C‑2 for property at 2380 Sheriff Road (case Z25‑026) but denied a requested special use permit for a liquor store (U25‑008) and later denied a special use permit to operate a convenience store at the same address (U25‑009).

Planning staff presented the rezoning request and recommended approval of the C‑1 to C‑2 rezoning while recommending denial of the liquor‑store special use permit because of proximity to sensitive uses and zoning‑table considerations. Applicant Babul Shah said the property is being rebuilt as a small retail plaza and asked the commission to permit a liquor retailer and a convenience operation; he said the site previously housed a convenience business and that he holds business licenses.

During public comment neighbors Alvin Reynolds and Michael Venable objected to adding another liquor outlet and convenience operation on Old National/nearby corridors, noting existing clustering of gas stations, liquor stores and similar businesses and calling for protection of the corridor’s character and nearby daycare uses. Venable and Reynolds asked the commission to deny both use permits and the rezoning.

Commissioners voted to approve the rezoning by roll call; the record shows the rezoning recommendation will go to City Council. Commissioners then voted to deny the liquor‑store special use permit and separately denied the convenience‑store special use permit; staff noted convenience stores in C‑1 are treated similarly to gas stations and distance requirements apply.

The rezoning recommendation and the denials will be forwarded to City Council. The applicant may revise plans or pursue other options before council action.

Votes recorded: rezoning (approved by roll call), liquor store SU (denied), convenience store SU (denied).