Plan Commission recommends day care home at 709 Fieldhouse Ave. to Board of Zoning Appeals

The Elkhart City Plan Commission voted unanimously on March 3 to recommend that the Board of Zoning Appeals consider a special-exception permit for a family day care at 709 Fieldhouse Avenue.

City planning staff presented the petition filed by Janella Gates and described it as an application under Section 5.3 (special exception uses) and Section 4.3(f) for a day care home. Staff said the property was built in 2024 according to assessor records and described the lot and house as in good condition. Staff noted the operator will still need a license from the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration before opening.

The recommendation followed a brief presentation from Gates, who identified herself as the property owner and said she has provided child care for seven years and is completing an associate degree in early childhood education. "I just want to welcome my home to families and have a caring facility for the people of my community," Gates said. She told commissioners she expects state licensing would allow up to 12 children at a time once licensed.

Staff recommended approval to the BZA on three findings of fact: that the special exception can be located and operated to protect public health and safety; that it will not reduce nearby property values because the site will retain its residential character; and that it conforms to the zoning district regulations. Staff also noted that a portion of the backyard will be fenced and that parents can use on-street or driveway parking for drop-off and pick-up. The Plan Commission clarified that the public hearing on the special exception will be held by the BZA on March 13 and that no letters were mailed specifically for the Plan Commission meeting.

Commissioner Davis moved to send a favorable recommendation to the Board of Zoning Appeals; Commissioner Mishler seconded. The roll call was unanimous.

The Plan Commission’s action was only a recommendation; the formal public hearing and final decision will occur at the Board of Zoning Appeals on March 13.

Details from the meeting: the petitioner is Janella Gates, owner of 709 Fieldhouse Avenue; the site will require state licensing from the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration; staff recommended approval to the BZA; and the BZA public hearing is scheduled for March 13.