Planning commission finds ballet studio similar to indoor fitness and training in I‑2 district

The North Ridgeville Planning Commission on Sept. 9 affirmed that a proposed White Rose Ballet Academy in a building on Leer Nagle Road is similar to an indoor fitness and training facility and therefore belongs in the I‑2 light industrial district; the commission directed staff to codify the definition in the zoning code.

Planning and Development Director Kim Lieber told commissioners the city received new business applications from the building and, while gymnastics and other fitness uses have historically been allowed in industrial areas, the ballet studio required a similar‑use determination. Lieber reviewed prior decisions that allowed gyms and other fitness centers in industrial zones and recommended a broader definition that explicitly lists dance studios, yoga studios, martial arts schools and gymnastics centers as indoor fitness and training facilities.

Assistant Law Director Morgan and commissioners noted the practical reason many fitness activities locate in industrial buildings: the large floor area and ceiling heights needed for instruction and training. Dominic Ancellari, the facility manager, and Christy and Tim Culp, who described themselves as financial backers for White Rose Ballet Academy, spoke briefly; no public objections were raised.

The commission approved a motion to affirm and codify the similar use with a definition: indoor fitness and training facility means a building or portion thereof used primarily for participatory physical activity, fitness, or instructional training (examples listed). The motion passed unanimously.