Some of the common concerns voiced by residents and property owners when a proposed development is debated were voiced again Tuesday during the Shelby County Plan Commission meeting. 

The questions and comments this time were about a proposed 11,000-square-foot retail building development in Fairland. But at the top of the list of questions -- what is going there?

A request came before the plan commission Tuesday to rezone just over two acres from A-1 (Conservation Agricultural) to VM (Village Mixed Use) to allow for the development of the property for low-intensity retail use.

The rezoning for 4771 West 400 North received unanimous approval for a favorable recommendation from the plan commission. The two-acre lot is being subdivided from 118 acres of farm ground. The applicant is the owner of the property, Bill and Carol Jean Ritchie.

Attorney Brian House with Pritzke and Davis in Greenfield presented the request to the plan commission Tuesday. He noted that he can’t say what the use might be, although he also said determination is still to be made.

He did note that the county’s policies under the proposed rezoning wouldn’t allow for things like underground gas tanks that a convenience store or gas station would need.

Along with drainage, traffic and other concerns of area residents and property owners at the meeting, there was concern of the area changing.  House says he respects that but things do change.

Stipulations for the proposed development include a minimum six-foot-tall opaque fence and six evergreen trees between the north parking lot and property line.  Also, landscaping requirements as indicated in the UDO. All parking spaces are to be in the rear unless the building incorporates architectural standards in compliance with the UDO.

House also read a letter from the Town of Fairland that expressed its support for the project.