The petition to revert the zoning of 420 Martin Street back to R-3 Residential was denied by lack of action by the Chillicothe City Council. On August 10th, the council approved the request by Hope Haven to zone the property MU-1 Mixed-Use. At the meeting Monday, the neighbors presented the petition signed by 25 neighbors requesting the change be repealed so the city could have more control. Martha King spoke representing those on the petition explaining the issues they have now and in the past with Hope Haven and they felt the Residential zoning would give more control with a new owner.
City Administrator Darin Chappell says some of the confusion of the issue is that Hope Haven Industries existed and operated on the property before the city had Zoning Ordinances.
Under the Mixed Use – M1 zoning, any new business would have to follow the restrictions of the zoning classification.
Following the discussion, First Ward Councilman Denny Albertson recommended the council take no action on the request.
The mayor asked the council if they wanted to take action, and no motion was presented. The issued died on the floor.
During the discussion, members of the Hope Haven Board agreed to have the debris issues on the property cleaned up and also said the property would soon be vacated as they are preparing to move to their new location.
