Kokomo zoning board approves Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at 1704 West Boulevard

The Kokomo Board of Zoning Appeals voted to grant a special exception for the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kokomo to operate at 1704 West Boulevard, the board announced during its meeting.

Douglas Eglin, president of the congregation, told the board the fellowship uses a space in a long-standing strip mall, averages fewer than 15 attendees on Sundays, has seating for about 20–25 people and that no new construction or exterior changes are planned. “Churches strengthen communities by providing vital spiritual, social, and psychological support,” Eglin said while arguing the use would not harm public health or nearby properties.

Board staff (Sheetal) read findings recommending approval, noting the building meets setback requirements, the strip mall has operated for more than a decade and the small congregation’s activities have not generated complaints. Staff characterized the request as a housekeeping action to legalize an existing use.

Neighbor John Bolke, who lives at 1701 West Boulevard across the street, urged the board to consider the strip mall’s commercial potential. “If they stay there, that’s one less potential business site and one less tax source for the community,” Bolke said, arguing that business occupancy generates tax revenue for local services.

Board members asked questions about parking and growth; Eglin said the site offers roughly 54 designated parking spaces plus some on-street parking and that the congregation has not grown in decades. A motion to approve the special exception and adopt the findings was moved by a board member, seconded and approved by voice vote.

The decision legalizes the fellowship’s continued use of the 1704 West Boulevard space under the city’s zoning rules; the board adjourned at the end of the meeting.