The City of Vermilion Planning Commission met on March 5, 2025, with members Joe Williams, Jeff Hammerschmidt, and Guy Sako in attendance. Jim Chapple and Heather Shirley were absent. Several key issues were discussed, including cannabis zoning regulations, a land use variance for a dog kennel, and a lot split for Vermilion Foursquare Church.
Cannabis Zoning Regulations Discussion
Mayor Forthofer addressed the long-pending cannabis zoning issue, stating that City Council is now actively seeking recommendations from the Planning Commission on where cannabis-related businesses should be permitted. Currently, vape shops are zoned in B-3 districts, while downtown Vermilion is zoned B-2. The Commission was encouraged to provide a consensus on zoning preferences so the Law Director could draft appropriate legislation. Williams requested that a full committee meeting be held with the Law Director present for further discussion, and the topic was added to the next meeting’s agenda.
Land Use Variance for Dog Kennel on Vermilion Road
Property owner Raymond Cassidy requested a land use variance at 2110 Vermilion Road to operate a dog daycare and overnight boarding service. His property, zoned A-1 (Agricultural Residential), does not currently permit commercial businesses, requiring the variance.
Cassidy assured the commission that:
- No new buildings would be added—just additional fencing.
- The kennel would primarily house 5-10 dogs, depending on demand.
- Dogs would be kept indoors most of the time.
- Neighbors were informed, with one neighbor having no objections.
Commission members discussed whether letters of approval from neighbors should be required but ultimately approved recommending the variance to City Council with a 3-0 vote. A public hearing will be held before final approval.
Vermilion Foursquare Church Lot Split/Combination
Pastor Heidi Strickler presented a request on behalf of Vermilion Foursquare Church at 880 Exchange Street to adjust property lines. The church had purchased an adjacent house in 2022, gaining an access route to Exchange Street and clearing up landlocked parcels. The commission approved the request contingent on minor corrections noted by the City Engineer.
Looking Ahead
The next Vermilion Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for April 2, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Vermilion Municipal Complex. Topics will include further discussion on cannabis zoning regulations.
This meeting showed progress on long-standing zoning issues, a local business expansion request, and property development cleanup efforts. Stay tuned for more updates as Vermilion shapes its community planning efforts.
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