Planning panel approves seasonal greenhouse variance at 26 North Main Street

The Crown Point planning panel voted to approve petition 25‑18, granting a variance to allow a seasonal greenhouse at 26 North Main Street for a limited annual period of March 1 through July 1.

The petition was presented by Joseph Neri, who identified himself as “the store manager at 1276 North Main Street.” Planning department staff recommended a permanent variance based on the petitioner’s history but noted the department could require the petitioner to return if “a problem or change arises.” The panel instead approved the variance with the March 1–July 1 timeframe and required that any changes bring the petitioner back before the board.

Planning department staff told the panel there were no letters of remonstrance or support and that notices had been mailed and filed. Joseph Neri described the request concisely as seeking “approval for the variance on the greenhouse in the parking lot.”

Board members asked about the requested operating months and whether the seasonal window was March through June; the petitioner clarified the request as March 1 through July 1. One member said he was not comfortable with a permanent variance but would support a five‑year term; the board instead approved the limited annual window.

A motion to approve petition 25‑18 subject to the March 1–July 1 timeframe and to require the petitioner to return for changes or problems carried in roll call. The secretary confirmed the petitioner was approved “based on the items that we discussed” and that the petitioner would not have to return unless there were callouts or other issues.

The approval allows the greenhouse to operate during the approved seasonal window under the conditions and submittals the planning department has on file; any future complaints or changes would require the petitioner to seek further review by the panel.