BZA approves conversion and barn replacement variances, continues a pole‑barn case to Jan. 29; staff reports permits and retirement

The Delaware County Board of Zoning Appeals approved two variance requests and continued a third case to the board’s January meeting during its December session.

BZA63‑25, filed by Ditch Lilly Design LLC and applicant Rebecca Hannah for a commercial conversion at 217 South Cherry Street in Muncie, was approved after Hannah said the building — previously used as a doctor’s office — has existing parking and the intended use would be appointment‑only for three small businesses. No members of the public spoke in opposition; the motion to approve passed with four yes votes and one abstention.

BZA64‑25, filed by Lindsey Young to allow reduced front and rear setbacks for a replacement barn on land damaged by the April 2 tornado, was approved with conditions requiring removal of the old barn after the new structure is completed and limiting the new barn to personal use only (no business use). Young told the board the structure will be for storage of personal equipment and that a driveway is a future step.

The board circled back to a previously continued case involving an application from Andrew Collins for variances to build a new accessory structure with increased height and larger total square footage than the dwelling; the applicant was not present. The board voted unanimously to continue that hearing to the Jan. 29 meeting at 6 p.m. and asked staff to attempt to contact Collins.

During routine staff reports, planning staff said the office issued 786 building permits through November, collected $145,328.09 in fees and completed 1,478 inspections. Staff also announced that the office will co‑host the 2026 MPO conference (physically to be held in Kokomo) and that an ordinance revision consultant selection is expected by month’s end. Staff read a tribute announcing the retirement of Daniel (30 years of service), whose last day is Dec. 31; Daniel has agreed to help consult during the transition.

Votes at a glance: BZA63‑25 approved (4 yes, 0 no, 1 abstain); BZA64‑25 approved (5–0); Andrew Collins case continued to Jan. 29.