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Saginaw planning panel approves special‑use permit for Chat and Chew food pantry at 1000 Kennedy Lane
Summary
The Planning & Zoning Commission approved a specific‑use permit allowing Chat and Chew to operate a volunteer‑run, client‑choice food pantry and associated counseling programs at Suite 107, 1000 Kennedy Lane. The decision, supported by the property owner and volunteer testimony, moves to city council for final action.
Chair Benjamin Guttery opened a public hearing and the Saginaw Planning and Zoning Commission voted to approve a specific‑use permit for Chat and Chew to operate a philanthropic food‑pantry at Suite 107, 1000 Kennedy Lane.
Chat and Chew founder Marvie McClendon told the commission the proposed site will operate a client‑choice pantry run entirely by volunteers, with pantry days on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon and other days used for counseling and coaching services by appointment. McClendon said the pantry is not ZIP‑code restricted and described a point‑based shopping system that typically keeps visits brief.
A volunteer, Jeremy Roberts, spoke in support and described the program’s outreach and services for mothers and families. Property owner Gary Himes said he had informed tenants and reported no objections; he stated the complex has roughly 100 parking spaces and did not expect parking conflicts. Commissioners said the combination of limited pantry days, appointment services, owner support and available parking made the use appropriate for the site.
Commissioner (speaker 6) made the motion to approve the SUP for Suite 107; the motion was seconded and carried. The commission chair said the item will be forwarded to the city council for its vote and any SUP conditions would be finalized there.
The commission’s action permits Chat and Chew to locate at Suite 107; city council review and final authorization are the next procedural steps.
