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UPDATE 12/09
Subject: 2025-ZON-119
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WHAT’S NEXT? As a neighborhood, it is time to play offense and to see how this property can be utilized by our neighborhood so we help preserve our residential zoning.
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UPDATED NOTICE: Withdrawn
Case Number: 2025-ZON-119
Location: Washington Township, Council District #2
Request: Rezoning of 0.64-acre
WITHDRAWN
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Current zoning with proposed commercial
REZONING AND THE DOMINO EFFECT
If a business or commercial developer is successful in getting a residential property rezoned, it completely shifts the development dynamic of the neighborhood. Now, the lot next door becomes a target. It is far more susceptible to rezoning because of the precedent set by the first one. Furthermore, developers can offer more money than the property is valued at, creating an incentive to sell that shuts out the average home buyer. Also, the lot has become less desirable for residential use, now that it is adjacent to a commercial enterprise. When the second property is rezoned, the cycle repeats itself and continues to do so till all the commercially desirable lots are consumed. It is like a row of falling dominos… breaking the zoning on the initial property is like knocking over the first tile.
LONG TERM EFFECTS
When a residential property is considered for rezoning, the discussion usually centers on the nature of the proposed commercial use that goes in first. But circumstances change over time. Some businesses grow and need more space, others fail and must close. Suddenly, the original, seemingly benign and appropriate use is no more. Other less desirable enterprises can now take over the property. And it is far easier for them to do so because it is already zoned for commercial use. The unintended consequences of rezoning are very real – commercial is forever.
The comprehensive plan the city of Indianapolis uses for guidance must be followed to preserve our residential zoning
Problem with rezoning residential to commercial
Our neighborhood is very active with first time homebuyers, young families, and retirees. People here care about their homes and neighbors. We walk to eachother’s homes, walk our dogs, children ride bikes. We have no sidewalks so our access is through the neighborhood streets.
Residential Corridor Reserve
One item brought up at the NCC meeting on 11/6 was the extra layer of protection of the “residential corridor reserve“. This designated area clearly starts at the corner of 86th and College.
Zoning history
Residential zoning matters. The Indianapolis comprehensive plan has a hard line of residential zoning along the west side of College Avenue.
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
We believe that the preservation of residential zoning matters. We believe the comprehensive plan for the city of Indianapolis is important and should be followed.