BZA approves gunsmithing/engraving operation on rural parcel with strict safety and compliance conditions

The Miami County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a use variance on June 10 allowing Crown Haven Center LLC (c/o Bryce Barnes and Amber Washington) to operate gunsmithing and firearm engraving on a 2.99‑acre A‑1 parcel in Pipe Creek Township, subject to strict conditions.

Applicants said the relocation involves no onsite discharge, no signage and that all work would be performed indoors within a designated pole building. Neighbors voiced objections: Donald Simcox said he "does not believe the county needs something like this in this area," expressing concern for children and community safety. In response, Bryce Barnes said the operation would not change the property's structure and would not have a storefront; Amber Washington said, "All firearms are locked up." The board approved the variance; conditions recorded in the motion require secure storage of firearms and regulated components, indoor operations, compliance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations, and no firearm discharge or testing on the property.

Attorney Mark Frantz tallied the ballots. The record shows split votes on some findings (several findings recorded as 4–1 disagreements on particular findings) but the overall variance was approved and the specific operating conditions were imposed.