Megan Henson seeks zoning change for grooming business on Jamesville Road

During the recent DeWitt Town Board meeting on April 28, 2025, a significant discussion centered around local business development and zoning regulations, particularly concerning a new grooming business seeking to establish itself in the community.

Megan Henson, a local groomer, addressed the board regarding her efforts to open a grooming and boarding facility at 4901 James Hill Road, adjacent to her veterinary partner. Henson shared her journey of finding a suitable location after her previous rental space became unavailable. Despite her enthusiasm and investment in the new property, she encountered zoning complications that initially prevented her from operating as planned.

The board acknowledged Henson's situation, with Councilor Alex confirming that they were aware of her challenges and had been discussing potential zoning changes to accommodate her business. The proposed changes aim to expand the Hamlet Zoning District, which would allow Henson to operate her grooming business without the boarding component that had initially complicated her plans.

The board expressed regret for not communicating earlier about the ongoing discussions and assured Henson that they were working towards a solution. They outlined the process for the zoning change, which includes drafting language for the amendment, obtaining recommendations from the planning board, and scheduling a public hearing. This process is expected to take approximately four to six weeks, although the board cautioned that such timelines can be unpredictable.

Henson voiced her concerns about the timeline, emphasizing the urgency of her situation as she had already begun operations before realizing the zoning issue. The board encouraged her to remain patient and assured her that they would work closely with her to navigate the necessary steps.

In addition to Henson's case, the meeting included a presentation from the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority, which provided updates on the airport's performance and future plans. This highlights the board's ongoing commitment to fostering local economic development and addressing community needs.

The discussions from this meeting reflect the town's responsiveness to local business challenges and its efforts to adapt zoning regulations to better serve the community, ultimately aiming to support entrepreneurs like Henson in their endeavors.