Residents press Muncie officials over McKinley development, question permitting and process

Residents of the McKinley neighborhood told the Muncie Redevelopment Commission on June 18 that recent development on Columbus Avenue and adjacent lots is proceeding without adequate neighborhood input or clear adherence to adopted standards.

Rachel Robertson, vice president of the McKinley Neighborhood Association, said residents repeatedly requested documentation and meetings about an Eckert project and found that "building permits had already been issued" even though communications between city departments indicated the site plans required variances. "Residents deserve a clear explanation of how that occurred," Robertson said.

Bruce Rector, president of the McKinley Neighborhood Association, said he initially supported earlier plans but has reversed his view after reviewing the current project, arguing it does not meet the neighborhood master plan or the VanderWalle design guidelines and will create corner lots too small for future construction.

Several other speakers, including realtor Rebecca Hannah and long‑time resident Bill Inman, pressed for transparency and a pause on construction until the city releases full records — plans, committee reviews, approvals and permits. Inman asked officials to "stop construction on these lots until the city holds a public review" with McKinley residents and to publish the full documentation.

Developers and designers also addressed the commission. Jonathan Chandless of CREW Construction said developers need clear, enforceable design standards in EDAs (economic development agreements) and that process clarity helps both neighborhoods and builders. "Design is not merely about appearance," Chandless said, adding that standards affect property values, walkability and long‑term success.

Commissioners and staff responded that the Redevelopment Commission’s role was to procure developers and execute EDAs; permitting authority and stop‑work orders rest with the building commissioner and the city engineer. Jeff Howe, who provided project updates earlier in the meeting, said staff have assigned a review of the permits and are coordinating with the building commissioner and city engineer to address concerns.

Several commissioners stressed they cannot unilaterally suspend permits or construction and encouraged residents to pursue the appropriate administrative remedies with the building commissioner and planning bodies. The commission’s chair said the EDA process had been used to move long‑idle lots toward development and cautioned that reneging on EDAs could discourage future developers.

The meeting closed with commissioners noting the zoning and overlay issues raised by residents will go to the planning and permitting authorities for resolution. The commission did not take a formal action to reverse any transfers or permits during the session; several speakers signaled they would seek administrative or legal remedies if they remain unsatisfied.

The Redevelopment Commission is scheduled to meet again on July 16, 2026.