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Council approves special-use exception for proposed ice-cream shop at 1702 Western Avenue
Summary
The council adopted Bill 24-25 to allow a restaurant use (an ice-cream shop) at 1702 Western Avenue after a favorable recommendation from the Board of Zoning Appeals; petitioner said the business would activate a vacant storefront and work with the building department to improve a surface parking lot.
The South Bend Common Council on May 12 adopted Bill 24-25, approving a special-use exception to permit a restaurant at 1702 West Western Avenue in Council District 6.
Principal development planner Skip Morrell described the parcel as UF (Urban Flex) zoning along a commercial stretch of Western Avenue. Attorney Bob Masters spoke for the owner, A & M Wireless Inc., and said owner Jesse Singh purchased the property and is negotiating with a restaurateur who envisions a Mexican-American–focused ice-cream shop. Masters told council the use is consistent with the city plan objective U2.2 to pursue a mix of land uses along major corridors and that the owner is improving the parking and landscaping per Board of Zoning Appeals conditions.
No members of the public registered for or against the proposal during the hearing. Council members voiced support and welcomed the investment along Western Avenue. The council voted 9-0 to send the bill forward with a favorable recommendation in committee and adopted it on third reading.
Ending: The owner and prospective tenant will work with the building department on required site improvements and permits before opening; council and staff described the proposal as activating a vacant storefront and contributing to corridor revitalization.
