The Champaign County Environment & Land Use Committee voted Dec. 16 to forward a rezoning application for 2205 E. University Ave., Urbana, to the full county board.

Owner Fred Otten filed the rezoning request with applicant Vashali Patel of Pranum M A A LLC to change the 0.51-acre property from I‑1 (Light Industry) to B‑4 (General Business), which would allow a broader set of commercial uses. The board discussed that the rezoning would bring an existing use into conformity with the ordinance.

Applicant Vashali Patel explained the sequence for licensure if the project proceeds: first a city liquor license ("anywhere from 5 to 10 day[s]," depending on city review), then a state liquor license ("can take up to 30 days or more"), and then a waiting period of about six months before applying for video gaming at this time. Patel said she and others have rented the property for about eight months and are pursuing a careful, not rushed, compliance process.

Board member Mala said she would vote no because she did not support locating that type of establishment close to residential areas. Other members noted an existing business with gaming nearby and said bringing an occupied building into compliance has benefits for taxes and local activity. Committee discussion also noted a nearby bus stop and pedestrian concerns.

The committee approved the rezoning recommendation by voice and will send the case to the full county board for final decision. The chair recorded at least one dissent in committee; the full board will make the final determination.

Quotes in this article are taken from the meeting transcript.