Davenport zoning board approves special-use permit for reflexology, yoga and doula services at Eastern Avenue

The Davenport City Board of Zoning Adjustment on Sept. 25 approved Special Use SU25-05, allowing Illuminate Healing Studio LLC to operate reflexology, yoga and doula services at 3707 Eastern Avenue. The board approved the permit by roll call, with all voting members recorded in favor.

The permit authorizes a neighborhood commercial establishment within a nonresidential portion of a place of worship on property zoned multiple-family (MF), Ward 6. Staff recommended approval subject to six conditions, and the board adopted those conditions as part of its motion to approve.

The applicant, Rebecca Brook of Illuminate Healing Studio LLC, told the board she previously operated a similar business and plans to relocate to the church property. Staff said the leased area is about 800 square feet, will be accessed via a northeast door adjacent to parking, and the business will typically serve a single client at a time; classroom-style offerings could include about 10 participants. Staff noted the use is allowed as a neighborhood commercial establishment but said outside storage and drive-throughs are prohibited and signage would be approved through the city’s sign process.

Laurie McCollum, chair of the board of the Unitarian Church that occupies the building, spoke in favor: “We support having Becky there. Her business is in alignment with our mission and vision, and we would welcome her business there.” Brook said she intends to occupy the space as soon as she is able.

The six conditions adopted with the special use require: (1) conformance with the neighborhood commercial establishment section of the municipal code; (2) a rehearing if the use becomes noncompliant or if staff documents code infractions; (3) no expansion or enlargement of the use without a public hearing; (4) compliance with building department, neighborhood services and fire department codes prior to licensing; (5) conformity with applicable city, state and federal regulations; and (6) the special use is limited to the current owner, with a public hearing required if ownership transfers by more than 50 percent.

Staff reported that notices were mailed to 32 adjacent property owners and that no responses had been received before the hearing. With no objections from board members and one public speaker in favor, the board approved SU25-05 subject to the six staff recommendations. The board took no further business and adjourned.

Votes at a glance: Special Use SU25-05 — approved (roll call recorded all voting members in favor).