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Board approves fence-height and barbed-wire variances for Haines International amid neighborhood objections
Summary
The Kokomo Board of Zoning Appeals granted variances allowing Haines International to erect higher chain-link fencing with barbed wire around a portion of its site; staff said the fence improves safety in a longstanding heavy-industrial area while neighbors said it will 'look like a prison.'
The board heard case P01B26 on Feb. 3 from petitioner representatives seeking variances to allow increased fence heights and barbed wire at a Haines International site. Eric Jansen, representing Haines International, said the fence will be identical to fencing already around the operation and will enclose an area previously used as a soccer field to prevent unauthorized access during construction and operations.
Jansen argued the fence is a safety measure: "The fence will prevent access of unauthorized individuals... the public, due to ignorance or manufacturing hazards, might be endangered by unimpeded access to the manufacturing site," he said in support of the variance request. Staff reported the property has been zoned HI (heavy industrial) for many years and recommended approval, noting the proposed fencing would not encroach on drainage easements or neighboring properties.
Adjoining residents raised objections. Susan Carter, who lives at 1308 Belmont Avenue, asked how the fence would affect the neighborhood and said it would "look like a prison." Charles Callahan, a neighbor of more than 30 years, also said the fence and nearby construction had dramatically changed his view from his front door.
Board members and staff clarified scope: the hearing before the Board was limited to fence variances and future public hearings will address building construction and site layout. Company representatives said the gravel pad neighbors asked about is inside the fenced area and serves as a temporary laydown area for materials; the planned future building will be offset from that pad.
After discussion the chair called a voice vote; ayes were recorded and the motion to approve the variances was declared approved.
