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Board continues Linden Martin’s request for used‑car sales after split vote
Summary
A proposal to permit used‑auto sales at 2111 South 17th Street was continued after the three‑member quorum failed to reach the unanimous vote required; staff had recommended denial citing street loading and district intent.
A request to allow used‑auto sales at 2111 South 17th Street was continued to the next monthly meeting after the Elkhart City Board of Zoning Appeals could not reach the unanimous vote required under the board’s three‑member quorum rule. Petitioner Linden Martin told the board he bought a neglected lot, renovated it and wants to lease space for small‑scale auto sales. "I purchased this property... I transformed it into a class A property," Martin said while describing repairs and paving he said were completed in March 2026.
Staff opposed the variance, citing concerns about loading and unloading cars from transport trucks on the public street because of the lot’s small size and noting that the M‑1 Limited Manufacturing district permits other, more intense uses that staff consider preferable. Staff also outlined seven findings of fact and listed conditions it would require if the board were to approve a variance.
The petitioner asked for conditions allowing a two‑year review; during roll call at least one board member voted 'no,' so the board lacked the unanimous approval required with three members present and directed the petitioner to return when a full board can vote. No members of the public spoke against or for the petition during the hearing.
