ZBA denies use variance for proposed Turner Housing transitional program at 121 Chamberlain Street

The Pontiac Zoning Board of Appeals voted to deny a use variance that would have allowed Turner Housing to repurpose a former rectory at 121 Chamberlain Street into a transitional housing program with wraparound services.

City planning staff told the board the building, formerly associated with the adjacent Catholic church, has been in place since at least 1951 and contains roughly 31 rooms. Staff said the applicant’s packet describes services including case management, job-readiness training, mental health counseling, health and wellness services, nutritional support and connections to public benefits.

Staff emphasized the board’s review must be limited to the seven legal standards for a use variance. A staff presenter said, “the ZBA should solely base their decision on the 7 standards of approval,” and reminded members that granting a use variance requires five affirmative votes.

The applicant, Shanti Turner of…