Editors Note: The following article was kindly submitted by Kathi Spayde, member of the Put-in-Bay Property Owners Association. Visit the POA for excellent community information and links.
The Put-in-Bay Planning Commission held a Public Hearing today with a capacity packed meeting at the Village Town Hall. The meeting was facilitated by Renee Market, who was joined by Commission members Judy Berry, Craig Cox, Jerry Flint, Zoning Inspector Todd Blickley, and clerk Karen Gaoziou. Plans for the former TJ’s Smokehouse/Crescent property were shared. Two requested variances were considered: Reduction of the required 133 parking spaces down to 109 spaces and a set-back of the required 60 feet down to 8 feet.
John Blanke, the owner, assured attendees that he plans to have a fun, clean, upscale facility for people to enjoy. At this time, he is undecided on the names for the several different venues planned for the property.
Attendees voiced concerns about the family friendliness of the facility and it being so close to two nearby child populated facilities; DeRivera Park playground and the Candy Bar store. Vehicle ingress/egress from already congested Delaware Road was noted, and a water/sewer impact study was suggested. It was pointed out that the poor condition of the former facility made it impractical to maintain and/or renovate. Another business owner noted the current popularity of pool bars and their profitability. There were many other questions/concerns, objections, and positive comments.
The Commission voted 3 to 1 to accept the parking space reduction and unanimously to accept the set-back variance with stipulations. Renee Market stated the addition of 109 parking spaces would have an extremely positive impact on the downtown parking issues. In a passionate comment, she noted that she has the interest of the village at heart.
Plans for former TJ’s / Crescent property are on POA Web site.