Neighbors object as council opens read on proposed change to 519 South Drexel bed-and-breakfast variance

The Bexley City Council opened readings on a proposed ordinance to amend the use variance for 519 South Drexel on June 10; the item drew several neighborhood speakers and deferral to the council’s next meeting for a formal hearing.

Nut graf: The property has a long procedural history: council previously granted a bed-and-breakfast use variance with conditions (including owner-occupancy), later amended to allow Capital University staff to qualify; the current proposal would further modify conditions so that an owner who does not live on-site could operate the property. Neighbors said such a change would effectively convert the building to a short-term rental and asked council to deny any amendment.

Mayor Kessler and staff reminded the council that use variances can be requested by applicants and that bringing a proposal to council does not mean it is preapproved. Councilmember Marcelino said he opposes the proposed change and does not expect to vote in favor: “To me, this changes the fabric of our community ... I am not going to be a yes on this.”

Several neighbors and property owners near the site spoke at the reading. Jennifer Hoffman, who owns the neighboring building at 513 South Drexel, said she favored retaining the owner-occupant condition and warned the change would “impact property values” and create noise and disturbance risks associated with short-term rentals. Local property owner Sam Shemansky urged council to deny the change and said many adjacent owners oppose it.

Councilmembers asked staff and the mayor for clarifying information and for strict notice of the upcoming published hearing. Mayor Kessler confirmed the applicant was not present at the June 10 meeting and will appear for the published hearing at the next council meeting; the administration said notices were mailed consistent with the city’s procedural timetable.

Ending: The council left the matter on the calendar for the next meeting, when the applicant is expected to present and neighbors will have another opportunity to testify at the published hearing; council members emphasized they will apply variance criteria when making a decision.