Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Animal Care topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Nonprofit Silver Stray seeks use variance for low-cost veterinary clinic on South Lake Street
Summary
Silver Stray Social Inc. asked the committee to allow a use variance at 563 South Lake St. for an appointment-based veterinary clinic offering free vaccines, microchips and limited surgical days; the BZA said the variance factors were met but neighbors raised six remonstrations about density and proximity to restaurants.
Silver Stray Social Inc., a nonprofit that runs community veterinary clinics, asked the Planning and Development Committee for a use variance to operate a low- to moderate-intensity veterinary clinic at 563 South Lake Street (CPO 2026-24).
Attorney Molina said the Board of Zoning Appeals found the five legal factors for a use variance were met and recommended approval with conditions limiting the intensity of operations, prohibiting overnight boarding and requiring all services to occur within an enclosed structure. The board also recommended that any future expansion return to the BZA for review.
Jay Weinberg, president of Silver Stray, told the committee the site would provide appointment-based services and occasional surgical days, and he described a career-pathway component that would connect local youth to veterinary opportunities. "It will be the first free access to care and career pathway vet clinic in the entire United States," Weinberg said, adding the clinic will provide free vaccines, microchips, spay and neuter and operate under an MOU with Gary animal control partners.
Six residents attended the BZA hearing as remonstrators, Attorney Molina said; neighbors raised concerns about density, animals near restaurants and visibility from storefronts. Weinberg said surgical days would be limited (perhaps one weekend or two weekends per month initially), that most animals would be transported by Silver Stray staff rather than arriving on foot, and that intake would often occur at the rear entrance to reduce impact on neighboring businesses.
Council members asked about noise mitigation and how Silver Stray would keep communication open with remonstrators. Weinberg said he had already discussed plans with local business owners and would continue outreach. The transcript records no committee vote; the item remains subject to final council action.
