Planning commission recommends conditional use for Runnings outdoor storage with fence condition

The Findlay City Planning Commission on April 17 recommended approval of conditional use CU‑10‑2025 to review and reauthorize outdoor storage at Runnings, 1800 Tiffin Avenue, with a condition on fencing material.

City staff said the site is located on the east side of the former Findlay Village Mall area and is zoned C‑2 General Commercial. After the introduction of new outlots and the arrival of a new Sheetz, the applicant submitted a revised outdoor storage plan that reorganizes seasonal and garden center materials, moves some display/storage to the north, and preserves an enclosed fenced area where seasonal materials are kept.

Staff asked that any new enclosure match the existing aluminum fence material used elsewhere on the property rather than a chain‑link fence; if the applicant prefers chain link near the property line, staff said a variance would be required because chain link is not permitted that close to the property line. Eldon Ibarra, speaking for the applicant, said the preference for an 8‑foot chain‑link fence is driven by height and theft prevention; he said Runnings submitted a variance request the morning of the meeting.

Fire prevention noted concerns about storage under overhangs and propane refilling areas, and engineering recommended attention to the propane fill station and seasonal storage. Commissioners emphasized screening and aesthetics and voted to approve the conditional use with the recommendation that the fence material be changed to match the existing aluminum screening if possible; aye votes recorded included Commissioner Klinger, Commissioner Martin, Commissioner Tremblay and Commissioner Schroeder.

The commission’s recommendation allows the applicant to pursue a variance if desired; the record shows the applicant is preparing a variance application to address the chain‑link fence request.