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Development Commission approves 24‑unit Lindor Drive project despite neighborhood opposition
Summary
The commission approved a rezoning recommendation for a proposed 24‑unit apartment building on Lindor Drive (case Z24‑020) after extensive neighborhood opposition citing traffic, park access and neighborhood character concerns; staff recommended approval consistent with area plan.
The Columbus Development Commission voted to forward a rezoning request (case Z24‑020) for a 24‑unit apartment project on Lindor Drive to City Council after neighborhood speakers urged denial, citing traffic, pedestrian safety at the adjacent park and a loss of established single‑family character.
Planning staff told commissioners the 0.92‑acre site has been commercially zoned since 1963, that the Southeast Area Plan supports mixed‑use or residential up to 24 dwelling units per acre in the location, and that the updated site plan increased north and east setbacks, added landscaping and agreed to provide a five‑foot screening fence and other concessions sought by the area commission. Staff recommended approval.
Multiple residents and Greater Southeast Area Commission members testified in opposition. Speakers said the project would increase traffic at an already congested neighborhood street, would create parking and safety issues near a city park used for youth sports, and would alter the established single‑family neighborhood; several residents asked the commission to require a different housing product (townhouses or mixed‑use) or to preserve the parcel for public use. "We don't need apartments in the middle of this neighborhood," said Diana Bunning, a resident and area commission member.
The applicant's consultant said the site has been vacant for decades and that commercial redevelopment has not been viable; the current design reduced building length to increase setbacks, added screening, and adjusted landscaping. The consultant said a previous gas station occupied the site, and that commercial uses would remain allowed under current zoning. The developer committed to meet several technical items noted in staff comments.
After public comment and applicant response, commissioners voted to forward the rezoning with the submitted site plan and updated limitation text. In roll call, commissioners recorded multiple yes votes and one recorded no vote; the commission's recommendation now proceeds to City Council for final action and any required council variance review.
