Michigan City BZA approves variance to add third apartment at Elston Grove property

Michigan City — The Michigan City Board of Zoning Appeals on May 13 approved a use variance allowing the conversion of a basement into a third dwelling unit at 407 East Eighth Street in the Elston Grove historic district, adopting planning department conditions that limit the building to three total units, require conversion of the existing single‑lane driveway to a two‑lane driveway, and require compliance with the parking standards in Section 18.02 of the zoning code. The motion passed 3–1 with one member absent; Deborah Vance made the motion and Kathy Stransky seconded it.

The petitioner, represented by attorney Brad Adamski, and property owner Mark Marshitz of Forest Avenue Properties LLC d/b/a MGM Homes LLC told the board they need a third unit so the project will qualify for financing that makes the rehabilitation feasible. "Make the world a better place one house at a time," Marshitz said, describing his approach to gut‑and‑rebuild renovations and the need to rely on rental income to satisfy lenders.

Planning Director…