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Board approves use variance for dance-studio nonprofit at 6132 Broadway
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Summary
The zoning board approved Samantha Davis’s request to operate a not-for-profit dance studio (Dance Extreme All Stars) at 6132 Broadway in Crossroads Plaza (M-2 overlay). Staff described coach certification and indoor-only activities; the board approved the variance 4-0 with conditions and no public opposition.
The Town of Merrillville Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved a use variance to permit a not-for-profit dance studio, Dance Extreme All Stars, to operate at 6132 Broadway in the Crossroads Plaza.
Petitioner Samantha Davis described the nonprofit as a way to provide affordable competitive and recreational dance training. "I wanna give everybody that, every kid a chance to have that opportunity," Davis said, noting her five years coaching experience and that her program has competed at national events including Dance Worlds. Staff told the board the proposed use falls under a variance of use from §21-136 and that the subject property — approximately 19.54 acres within the M-2 limited industrial corridor overlay — is suitable for indoor activities; coaches are certified and have completed background checks.
Board members asked about previous uses at the location and whether the space had been vacant; staff and the petitioner said the space had been empty and that a D1 training facility had occupied similar uses previously. No members of the public spoke for or against the request. A motion to approve the variance with conditions passed on a unanimous voice vote.
The approval applies to this petitioner and use at the stated location only, and any change of operator or material change in operations would require additional review.
