The Vermilion Board of Zoning Appeals approved several residential and commercial variance requests during its December 9, 2025 meeting, while denying one application following neighborhood opposition.
The meeting was held at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex and was led by Vice Chair Bob Voltz. Board members Derek Lundy, Pete Bahner, and Liz Phillips were also present, along with Service Director Tony Valerius and Clerk of Council Melanie Wood. All speakers were sworn in, and the board unanimously approved the minutes from its October 28 meeting.
Among the approvals was a request from Don Schilling for a property on Claus Road, where he plans to construct a 616-square-foot home on a large rural parcel. The board granted variances allowing the reduced dwelling size and a narrower side yard setback, citing the property’s layout and Schilling’s plans for a permanent residential structure. The decision passed 4–0.
A request from Dan Lachowyn, who lives on State Street, to reduce a side yard setback for an existing shed was denied. Neighbors Debbie and John Sobieski spoke in opposition, stating the structure was too close to their property line and raised concerns about drainage and access. Board members questioned whether the hardship was self-created and ultimately rejected the variance on a 3–1 vote.
The board approved a variance for Gregory and Linda Epperly, who reside on Nicholson Road, allowing an addition to their legally nonconforming home located in an industrial zoning district. The Epperlys explained the house predates current zoning and that they previously combined parcels at the city’s request. The board unanimously approved the request.
Dustin and Megan Wisenbaler received approval to reduce rear and side yard setbacks at their home on Aldrich Road to accommodate an addition aligned with the existing structure. Board members noted that neighbors had been notified and raised no objections.
The board also approved two variances for David Miller on Jerusalem Road, allowing a gravel driveway for up to 30 months and waiving sidewalk requirements. Miller cited concerns about soil settling, the weight of a 50,000-pound RV, and the rural character of the area near the State Route 2 on-ramp.
Commercial improvements were approved for Bowl Thyme on Liberty Avenue. Owner Jeremy Crawford received a front yard setback variance to allow expansion of an outdoor patio area. The project had previously received Planning Commission approval contingent on the zoning variance and includes fire safety measures coordinated with the Fire Department.
Additional residential approvals included a front-yard shed variance for Amy Sprecher on Edgewater Drive and permission for a large pole barn on Brownhelm Station Road for Emily Staveski. Both requests passed unanimously, with the board noting neighbor communication and the placement of the structures away from adjoining properties.
With no further business, the board adjourned. The next Vermilion Board of Zoning Appeals meeting is scheduled for January 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex.
Can you give me an HTML button that says watch the meeting here please. https://vermilionoh.suiteonemedia.com/event/?id=1169