Plan Commission approves rezoning of property adjacent to Grace Bible Church for institutional use

The Plan Commission on June 3 approved a zone change from Urban Mixed Use to Institutional for property at 145 West 20th Avenue, a parcel associated with Grace Bible Church, following a planned sale and certified survey map that will shift approximately 16,606 square feet of land to the church property.

Staff reported the proposed rezoning is intended to match the institutional zoning of the church after the lot-line adjustment and property sale are complete. The parcel currently contains pavement that is planned to be conveyed; the certified survey map includes an easement to provide continued ingress and egress for both properties.

Mike Lovanhagen, speaking for the church, said the parking area has historically been used by the church since the church owned both the apartment complex (149 West 20th) and the church building in earlier ownership arrangements, and the church negotiated first option to buy the parking area when the apartment property was sold. Lovanhagen stated the parking lot has been used by the church for years.

Commissioner Bowen announced a business relationship with the seller and voted "present" on the roll call. Commissioner Buell said she scrutinizes moves of property to tax-exempt status but supported the findings after staff explained parking and easement arrangements. The motion to adopt staff findings and recommendations carried with seven ayes and one present vote recorded.