The Elkhart Board of Zoning Appeals approved a use variance to allow construction of a four‑family dwelling on a vacant lot at the intersection of West Franklin and Navajo Streets.

The petitioner sought relief from section 18.2, which does not permit four‑family dwellings in the M‑1 limited manufacturing district. Staff recommended approval, saying the block has a long history of mixed industrial, commercial and residential use and that the proposal represents “missing middle” housing on infill property.

Levi Rednauer, speaking for the petitioner, said, “There’s plans to build a quadplex on that vacant land,” and that units would be two bedrooms with about 920 square feet each. He added that “they’re gonna put a parking lot in the back on the north side, to match the surrounding neighborhood.”

Several neighbors and a nearby business owner opposed the request. Ron and Jackie Cloy identified themselves as residents and indicated opposition; Ivy Iverson, owner of Franklin Street Tavern, said the neighborhood bears costs from nearby renters and patrons, saying, “They leave their trash on a locked dumpster, and if they can't get in the dumpster, they leave it on the side.” Iverson also described concerns about people cutting through her parking lot, property damage to a chain‑link fence, and potential noise and heat from AC units facing her business.

Staff told the board that the parcel sits in an area that, since the 1950s, has a mix of industrial, commercial and residential uses and noted prior rezonings in the neighborhood (rezonings in 2005 on nearby parcels). Staff said the proposed use is less intense than many permitted industrial uses on Franklin, that existing infrastructure can accommodate compact construction and that required parking (two spaces per unit) can be provided off the alley.

During the hearing, staff reported 29 letters mailed and one returned call opposed citing “too many rentals in the area.” The board moved to approve the petition and adopt the petitioner’s documents together with staff’s findings; the motion passed and the board recorded the petition as approved.

The board’s approval allows the petitioner to pursue building permits and other required approvals; final construction must comply with applicable building codes and permit requirements.