Commission approves variances and recommends final plan for Sun Auto tire-and-service site

The Canal Winchester Planning and Zoning Commission approved two variances for an Outlot 6 tire-and-service facility and recommended the project’s final development plan to city council on Nov. 10.

Staff explained that existing storm-sewer infrastructure and a natural-gas easement constrain the site’s ability to meet a 50-foot build-to line in the Meyer outparcel pattern book; staff recommended VA25-013 to allow the building to be sited 58.8 feet at its closest point. Staff also described VA25-015, which reduces window glazing to 29% on the Meyer Drive elevation (largely frosted for internal tire storage) while providing 82% glazing on Diley Road to compensate. Attorney Aaron Underhill and engineering consultant Matt Poindexter said practical site constraints and tenant operations justify the requests.

Staff recommended FTP25-007, the final development plan for a 6,553-square-foot Sun Auto facility, with a condition that the applicant complete Hill Road improvements specified in a 2012 agency fund agreement with the Meijer Store Limited Partnership prior to occupancy. Civil engineer Matt Poindexter clarified a reduced-turn-lane length referenced in engineering review emails; the project team said they will follow the finalized engineering requirements. Commissioners voted to approve VA25-013 and VA25-015 and recommended FTP25-007 to city council by unanimous roll call.