Board approves amendment to 2931 Union Street planned development to allow church use and commercial kitchen for community use

The Village of East Troy board on Thursday approved an amendment to Chapter 5.10 of the municipal code to modify the planned development district for 2931 Union Street so the property can host church services, youth ministry in upper-floor classrooms and a commercial kitchen for church or related community uses.

Steve, who spoke on behalf of the property, told the board the church would rent the space beginning in September and wants the upper four classrooms for youth ministry on Sundays. He said the building historically hosted church activities and contains a lower-level kitchen with some appliances.

A nearby resident who lives at 2930 Union Street said he welcomed the church but raised concerns about snow removal and the effect of angled parking on roadway width in winter. He also asked whether the commercial-kitchen allowance opened the space to restaurants or bakeries. The board and staff clarified that a restaurant would require separate approvals and an occupancy permit from the building inspector; Eileen (staff) said a bakery could fall under indoor sales or service depending on the zoning and would need review.

Trustees said the addition of angled parking (13 spaces) has improved turnover and that the church's primary activity would be Sunday mornings, when parking demand from other businesses is lower. The board approved Ordinance 25-O6 to amend the planned development; staff reminded the property owner the building must meet building-code and occupancy requirements and that the building inspector would handle inspections and permits.

No further conditions or specific restaurant approvals were granted; any future commercial food business would need to apply for the appropriate permits and undergo building-inspection review.