Plan commission conditionally approves Elliot Russell martial arts studio; lot split, lighting and DPW items required

The Town of Zionsville Plan Commission conditionally approved a development plan June 15 for a 3,200‑square‑foot martial arts studio proposed at about 795 US‑421, subject to several conditions the town said must be met before building permits can be issued.

Staff recommended conditional approval and listed three conditions to be satisfied before permits: a recorded survey proving the proposed lot split, submittal of lighting fixture cut sheets for staff review, and resolution of outstanding Department of Public Works comments. Roger (planning staff) told the commission that once the lot is recorded the proposed parcel would not be subject to Michigan Road overlay architectural standards; staff will require the survey before permits.

Curtis Haymon of Milar Builders, representing the petitioner and client Russell Elliott, said civil and engineering consultants are addressing DPW concerns. Dante Pano of Mitten State Engineering told the commission the pond‑depth and swale items flagged by DPW are addressable and that on‑site options exist to meet minimum detention pond depth.

No members of the public signed up to speak on the petition. Commissioners asked technical questions about buffer berms adjacent to residential zoning, driveway and parking maneuvering space, and whether the split and survey could be completed quickly. The motion approved conditional development plan approval and required the subdivision/recorded survey to be finalized within 60 days; the vote was recorded by roll call and carried. The staff memo and DPW review remain part of the project record.

Next steps: petitioner must provide the recorded survey and lighting cut sheets and resolve DPW comments before permits will be issued.