The Lebanon City Council convened on February 4, 2025, to discuss a development standard variance request from Tiger Logistics LLC, aimed at expanding their facility located at 640 Ransdell Road. The property is situated in a general industrial zone and falls within the Thoroughfare Overlay District.

Mr. Bontrager provided an overview of the property, noting its history with the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). Approximately two years prior, Tiger Logistics acquired the site and received multiple variances to construct an accessory structure. The company is now seeking to consolidate operations by relocating their headquarters to this site, necessitating an expansion of the primary structure.

The existing building, which is currently 42 feet from the Ransdell Road right-of-way, is classified as a legally non-conforming structure due to the general industrial zoning requirement of a 100-foot front setback. The proposed expansion will not increase this non-conformity, as it will maintain the same 42-foot setback. However, the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) stipulates that any modifications to non-conforming structures must comply with current setback requirements, which would require moving the building back 58 feet—an impractical solution that would severely limit the site's usability.

In addressing the variance request, Mr. Bontrager outlined three key findings that must be met for approval:

1. The approval will not harm public health, safety, morals, or general welfare. The proposed expansion is not expected to pose any threats to the community.
2. The use and value of adjacent properties will not be adversely affected. The addition will maintain a similar setback to the existing structure, ensuring no significant impact on the surrounding area.
3. Strict adherence to the UDO would create practical difficulties in utilizing the property, as moving the existing structure would render the site nearly unusable.

Staff recommended approval of the variance to allow the expansion at the existing 42-foot setback. Paul Nashert, representing the applicant, expressed the company's commitment to Lebanon and their need for additional space to facilitate the move of their headquarters from Brownsburg.

The meeting concluded with no further questions from the board, and the variance request is expected to be reviewed for a decision in the coming sessions.