Commission backs rezoning for Riley pet grooming and boarding facility after neighborhood debate

The Vigo County Area Plan Commission recommended approval of a rezoning request to allow a pet grooming and related services use at 7694 East First Street in Riley, a proposal that led to extended public comment and several conditions noted by staff.

Staff told commissioners that rezoning from R1 to C7 raises concerns about required on-site parking, buffers, and the appropriateness of C7's higher-intensity commercial uses in a largely residential area. The petitioner, identified as Angela, said she has more than a decade of grooming experience, that the facility will be sanitized, and that dogs would not be left unattended. “The dogs are never going to be unattended or not picked up after and we’re very good at sanitizing,” Angela said, adding she planned daytime hours roughly between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Richard Shaggley, an attorney representing the town of Riley, described the council’s review and said the town generally welcomed the investment. Neighbors and a local realtor voiced opposition and asked the commission to delay approval, citing concerns over parking, hours of operation, noise, waste disposal and the effect on nearby rehabilitation/flip projects. Becky Clingal, a local real-estate agent, said she was “torn” and worried a kennel could deter residential improvements in the block.

After hearing public comment and staff recommendations, the commission voted to recommend the rezoning with attention to parking and variances to be adjudicated by the Board of Zoning Appeals. The motion passed with one member recorded as opposed.