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Walker commission backs recommendation to allow indoor recreation in industrial zones
Summary
The Planning Commission voted to forward a zoning-ordinance amendment recommending commercial recreation be permitted as a special land use in I-1 and I-2 districts, enabling indoor athletic facilities (cheer, volleyball, trampoline, pickleball) to seek Special Land Use review.
The Walker Planning Commission voted Dec. 3 to forward a recommendation to the City Commission to amend section 5.03 of the zoning ordinance to permit commercial recreation as a special land use in the I-1 and I-2 light industrial districts.
Planning Director Paula explained the change would not blanket-allow recreation uses but would require each operator to secure a special land use (SLU) review so the commission can assess safety, parking, hours and other site-specific compatibility issues. She cited examples in other municipalities and noted that many older industrial buildings with high ceilings are well suited for indoor sports and recreation facilities.
The applicant, Erin Woma (representing ATW Industries and FOE All Star Cheer), asked that commercial recreation be allowed in I-1 so a 3 Mile Road property could house an all-star cheer gym. Erin said the proposal is low-impact, indoor-only and compatible with adaptive reuse goals. Co-owner Tiara Johnson and several families described the gym as a community asset: "By approving an amendment specific for FOE, you're not just allowing our business to operate, but you're investing in a space that will help launch young lives and strengthen the community," Tiara said during public comment.
Paula noted that commercial recreation is already a special land use in commercial districts and that permitting it in parts of the industrial district with SLU review is an approach used by other cities to allow adaptive reuse while protecting industrial tax base and managing impacts.
Commissioner Jacob moved to forward the recommendation for the ordinance amendment for I-1 and I-2 districts; the motion was supported and carried. The recommendation will go to the City Commission for consideration; if adopted, applicants still must apply for and win site-specific SLU approvals to operate a facility.
Paula told the board she will prepare the recommendation packet for the City Commission; the commission closed the public hearing and moved on to other business.
