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ZBA approves variance to reopen Sherwood Avenue adult foster care home for 10 residents
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Summary
The board approved a use variance allowing an adult foster care home at 1327 Sherwood Avenue to operate with up to 10 residents (ZBA 25‑11‑20). Applicant Isaac Ogola and staff said the structure is built for 10 beds and has operated as a 10‑bed facility historically; the board voted unanimously to approve the variance.
Kalamazoo — The Zoning Board of Appeals on Nov. 13 approved a use variance that permits an adult foster care group home at 1327 Sherwood Avenue to increase capacity from the current ordinance limit of six residents to 10.
Applicant Isaac Ogola told the board the house is built and equipped to serve 10 residents — noting it has three full bathrooms, kitchen facilities and full‑time live‑in staff — and said neighbors he contacted provided letters of support. “The facility is actually set up for 10 beds right now,” Ogola said.
Planning staff reported the property historically operated as a 10‑bed adult foster care home for roughly 35 years; because the prior operation predated the current ordinance, staff supported the use variance and the board adopted a finding of fact reflecting that history. The board then voted by roll call to approve the variance, with all present members voting yes.
The approval allows the applicant to pursue licensing and permit steps required by the state and the city to reopen and operate the facility for up to 10 residents.
