Vermillion City Council on Oct. 20 approved a variance reducing the required setback from 20 feet to 0 feet for property at 16 High Street, allowing construction or renovation that would keep the building at or near the current footprint.

City staff explained the request centered on whether the applicant would raise and rebuild foundations (which would trigger the 20-foot setback) or remodel the existing building (which would be exempt because it is an existing structure). Staff recommended approval, noting the first option could create a self-imposed hardship while the second would not require a setback change. Staff also advised there were no exceptional geographic circumstances and recommended no conditions if the variance were granted.

Public testimony included support from Jim Peterson of the Vermillion Chamber Development Company and Nick Mart of Mart Brothers Construction, both of whom said a mixed-use building with commercial space on the ground floor and apartments above would add value downtown and provide parking benefits. Councilors discussed parking, footprint use, and whether a condition could be attached to allow only reuse of the existing foundation.

Councilor Holland moved to accept the variance; Councilor Murrah seconded. The motion passed by voice vote.

Staff noted that under the zoning ordinance a two-thirds vote of the entire board is the statutory requirement for such a variance (6 of 9 members). The council's action permits either reusing the existing foundation or constructing a new building at the same footprint, according to the applicant's plans.