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Rezoning request for Studio 22 moves forward after neighbors and business owners speak in favor
Summary
Council introduced and advanced Ordinance 12-26 to rezone 404 North Wheeling Avenue from R2 to BV so Studio 22 can relocate and revitalize a vacant building; neighbors and a physician testified in support and council asked for assurances on future uses and owner intent to sell.
The council introduced Ordinance 12-26 to change zoning for 404 North Wheeling Avenue from R2 (residential) to BV (variety business) to allow a business expansion request from Studio 22 owner Brad Warner.
Warner, a lifelong Muncie resident, and several supporters, including a long-time client described as a physician and a broker for the property, told council the move would revitalize a vacant building, increase neighborhood activity, and make Studio 22 more accessible to clients. Warner said the BV zoning limits allowable uses to those compatible with neighboring residences and the property’s owner and prospective buyers discussed the plan in advance.
Councilors asked whether the owner has a written contract with the prospective buyer and whether rezoning could allow future operators that the neighborhood might find incompatible. The broker and supporters said financing constraints make certain buyers unlikely and that BV limits incompatible uses; they noted the Nazarene Church (a potential alternative buyer) was aware and supportive.
After public testimony in favor, the council voted to introduce the ordinance and advance it; councilors emphasized they would review any future permits or changes of use if the property later sells.
The rezoning was supported by testimony focusing on small-business revitalization and neighborhood compatibility; the item will proceed through the normal ordinance process to final adoption.
