The Marshall County Plan Commission members recommended a zoning change at a property in Lapaz for approval by the Marshall County Commissioners.
Plan Director Ty Adley presented background information on William Cox’s request to change the zoning on a parcel from Commercial-1 to Town-1 at 106 S. Michigan Street in Lapaz.
“The plan is to use the main area as a clubhouse and refurbish the upstairs for a single family dwelling,” explained Adley. “The clubhouse would be used by a group of individuals who drive motorcycles and raise money for people who are in need. Part of the reason for changing the rezoning is to reduce cost.”
Commissioner Stan Klotz, who is the President of the Marshall County Plan Commission, stated that while it goes against the original plan for the downtown area of Lapaz, Lapaz officials said that they felt it was the best use. Adley added the commission members thought it would be a positive direction for that area.
The property appeared rundown in pictures showed during Monday’s Commissioners’ meeting, but property owner William Cox claimed that he’s done a lot to clean up the property since those pictures were taken, as affirmed by Commissioner Klotz.
William Cox asked that the commissioners approve his request.
“It’s a dying neighborhood,” said Cox. “There’s nothing commercial there anymore. Across the street, which is the only off-street parking provided, there’s nothing open except for the liquor store. When the bypass went through Lapaz it pretty much dried up. I’m trying to make improvements. I wish I had current pictures so you can see the efforts that we’ve made.”
He added that the property has been vacant for about 8 to 10 years.
After suspending the rules, the commissioners approved an ordinance granting the zoning change on all three readings.
