Plan Commission clears Living Hope Lutheran to convert school into 354-seat church

The West Allis Plan Commission approved a conditional-use and architectural review for Living Hope Lutheran to move its congregation into a former school building at 1337 S. 100th St.

Staff member Emily told commissioners that "religious institutions are conditionally allowed in the RA3 zoning district" and outlined a proposal to remodel roughly 17,000 sq. ft. of interior space to create a 354-seat sanctuary, a narthex/reception area, offices, a warming kitchen, upgraded ADA restrooms and a 192-seat hall. Emily said the project also proposes a roughly 1,200-sq.-ft. enclosed ADA ramp and vestibule and a tower/steeple to enhance street presence.

Emily noted that the board of appeals granted a variance to locate the enclosed ADA ramp about 9–10 feet from the front property line where a 20-foot setback is typical in RA3. The site will provide 65 parking spaces directly serving the building, with additional spaces available from the vacated building on the parcel and street parking on S. 100th St.

Staff recommended approval subject to a minor amendment to the conditional-use application so the project can be scheduled for common council review, submission of revised landscaping and architectural plans (including second-floor plans if available), and confirmation of exterior finish materials and required permits. The commission moved, seconded and voted to approve the conditional use and design review with those conditions; no members voted against the motion.

Next steps include the applicant submitting the revised materials for staff review and scheduling for common council public hearing procedures.