Loveland, Ohio – On March 5, a six-unit, 3-story townhome development proposed by local builder John Hill Construction, to be located at 200 Railroad Avenue within the Historic Preservation District Boundaries, was determined to be “inappropriate” for the neighborhood. The proposed townhomes were to be adjacent to existing cottage-style homes and Nisbet Park on the Loveland Bike Trail in Historic Downtown Loveland. The proposed project encompasses two vacant parcels consisting of .229 acres.
The developer has now appealed the denial, to the Board of Zoning Appeals. The case will be heard at City Hall on Monday, April 21 at 5:30 PM.
The public will be heard and comments can be submitted to the City’s zoning and economic development department by emailing ewisby@lovelandoh.gov or questions can be asked by calling 513-707-1450.
Loveland, Ohio – Near the end of this week’s public hearing, Planning and Zoning Commissioner Rob Weisgerber made a motion to not recommend a zoning map change to City Council. Weisgerber, Andy Bateman and Chairman Mark Redmond agreed with Weisgerber and voted “Yes” David Parker voted “No”. Commission Member Brian O’Neill did not attend the meeting.
The meeting was held to consider whether 12 homes should be built on Riverside Drive in the West Loveland Historic District on the bank of the National and State Scenic Little Miami River.
The full-capacity, standing room only, flowing into the hallway crowd.
The P&Z recommendation will now be delivered to City Council where there will be another public hearing. Upon completion of the public hearing, City Council may approve or disapprove the recommendation of Planning and Zoning Commission by a simple majority. Council may modify the recommendation of Planning and Zoning Commission by a 3/4 majority vote.
Watch the public as they comment on the proposed Special Planning District before a vote was taken.
BACKGROUND
Public hearing set for 12 single family homes being proposed along State and National Scenic Little Miami River
As our community comes together to review the proposed Special Planning District (SPD) development along Riverside Drive, it is crucial that we approach this process with transparency, collaboration, and a shared commitment to protecting the scenic and historic character of the Little Miami River.
What’s Happening: A developer has submitted a proposal to build 12 single-family homes on the riverbank along Riverside Drive, adjacent to the Loveland Historical Museum and Tufts-Schildmeyer Funeral Home. To enable this project, the developer plans to raise the floodplain using fill dirt and is requesting the city to approve re-zoning for this purpose. The Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing as part of their review process.
What’s at Stake: The Little Miami River is a nationally and state-designated scenic river. Current zoning and federal protections aim to preserve its ecological, aesthetic, and cultural value. This proposed development raises important questions:
Environmental Impact: Raising the floodplain could alter natural water flows, potentially increasing flood risks for neighboring properties, impacting wildlife habitats, and degrading water quality.
Community Character: Re-zoning and new construction could disrupt the historic and scenic integrity of the area, altering its charm and appeal.
Process and Precedence: Allowing this development may set a precedent for future projects that prioritize private gains over public and environmental interests.
Understanding the Process: Pursuant to Section 1151.01 and 1151.02(a)(2) of the City’s Planning and Zoning Code:
The first step is a preliminary review meeting to determine whether the proposed project falls within the SPD’s purpose and scope. (This meeting occurred on December 3, and the proposal was approved to advance to a public hearing.)
If deemed appropriate, a public hearing must be scheduled within 45 days to review the conceptual plans and gather public input. (This is the meeting happening on January 7.)
This process ensures community engagement and the consideration of all perspectives, including those of residents, advocacy groups, and experts.
Counter Argument: The developer argues that this project will create valuable housing and address flooding risks through engineered solutions. They assert that the proposed homes will align with the character of nearby properties and enhance the area’s vibrancy.
A Collaborative Approach: While development has its place, our community’s responsibility is to ensure that any changes align with the broader goals of preserving Loveland’s natural, cultural, and historical assets. To this end, we recommend:
Expert Involvement: Consulting with conservation experts and legal professionals to fully understand local, state, and federal zoning laws and protections.
Community Engagement: Encouraging residents to attend the public hearing, voice their perspectives, and engage in the decision-making process.
Transparency: Requiring detailed studies on flooding, traffic, and environmental impact before any decisions are made.
What Can You Do?
SHARE this information with neighbors, friends, and family.
We believe that by working together—residents, city officials, and developers—we can protect the Little Miami River while meeting the needs of Loveland’s growth in a thoughtful and sustainable way.
Loveland, Ohio – A public hearing date has been set for Tuesday, January 7 at 6 PM by the Loveland Planing and Zoning Commission to hear comments about a proposal to rezone 128 Riverside Drive to accommodate building 12 single-family homes.
The 12 single-family homes are being proposed for Riverside Drive on the State and National Scenic Little Miami River in the West Loveland Historic District. An application has been submitted by Traditions Building and Development Group. The proposed Special Planning District includes twelve (12) single-family “detached dwelling units” (24’ x 56’ 3-Story Homes) with minimum lot size of 0.114 acres or 4,966 sq. ft.
Symmes Township, Ohio – The Board of Trustees will hold a public hearings on Tuesday, September 3rd at 7 PM at the Township Administration building prior to their regular Board meeting to:
Revise the language of Section 386 Specific Criteria Pertaining to Conditional Uses and Table 35-1 that adult-use cannabis shall be regulated in the zoning resolution as a conditional use in the retail district and have minimum standards including but not limited to: one acre minimum site, retail parking requirements as stipulated in Section 141 Retail Stores which requires one parking space for each two hundred (200) square feet of floor area, minimum landscape standards as required in Section 145, outdoor lighting as required in Section 146, Buffer Yards as required in Section 326, and any other requirements stipulated in Section 380 Conditional Use of the Symmes Township Zoning Resolution. To review plans, click here.
[pdf-embedder url=”https://lovelandmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/G2024-55-zoning-text-amendments-adult-use-cannabis.pdf” title=”G2024-55 zoning text amendments adult use cannabis”]
Loveland, Ohio – City Hall has invited interested parties to attend two public hearings.
The first is on April 25 and it is about Flood Damage Prevention Regulations. The second hearing is about new proposed Outdoor Lighting Regulations and is on May 9.
Symmes Township, Ohio – The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet on Monday, October 3 at 7 PM at the Township Administration building to review the use of short term rentals at the following addresses:
The property owners, through their attorney, are challenging the determination of the Zoning Inspector that a conditional use permit is required for the use of short-term rental property. The Board of Trustees recently amended the Zoning Resolution to determine that a term for short term rental is 30 days or less. You can view the appeals by clicking on the addresses.
Loveland, Ohio – City Council will hold a public hearing (at or about) 7 PM in the council chambers at City Hall on September 27 to review and receive public input on a proposed Downtown Loveland Streetscape Master Plan.
The project aims to, “Create a planning document that will guide both short- and long-term infrastructure and streetscape investments in the city’s downtown business district.”
Loveland, Ohio – On Monday evening, Assistant City Manager Cory Wright requested that the Planning and Zoning Commission require a sidewalk and landscaping along Loveland Madeira Road and that a site plan be submitted before conditional use be granted to convert the now-closed Johnny’s Car Wash into a micro-brewery and tap room. Another appearance before the Commission would be required for the site review to discuss landscaping, sidewalks, and how exactly the car wash buildings will be repurposed. The proposed use of the current two buildings on the site is to use the self-service bays for the taproom and tavern and the building that contained the automated full-service wash to become the microbrewery.
The representative for the applicant said that sites in two other cities, one being Milford, were considered in a more than year-long process before choosing Loveland. Justin Conger, President and CEO of the Conger Construction Group out of Lebanon spoke on behalf of the applicant, Dana Depenbrock. Conger said he first approached City Manager Dave Kennedy, “Probably seven months ago” to discuss the feasibility of what they would propose.
There will be insulated overhead glass garage doors installed on some of the self-service bays facing Loveland Madeira Road.
Conger said that as he explored the re-use idea he discovered a similar adaption of a car wash in northern Ohio. “I think it’s a neat idea.” He added that outdoor seating is planned.
Conger said that because of the topography and grade of the site that retaining walls might be needed if they were required to install the sidewalk, “Might be a tough thing to do.” He said it may not be an easy feat and may even be cost-prohibitive.
Resident Kim Lukens addressed the Commission from the podium and said she wanted to talk about “values”. She said, “The City, the community, and visitors all have values that impact our decisions; where money is used, where we go to relax, socialize, and travel.” She said she did not think Loveland needs more places to serve alcohol. She described the proposed use as only a place to drink beer since it won’t be serving food. Lukens asked, “How much more of this type of entertainment does Loveland need more of?” Lukens was the only resident that spoke at the public hearing.
Commissioner Rob Weisgerber said that the establishment could “spark” needed development on that side of town and draw people to other businesses along the Loveland Madeira Road corridor. “Businesses at large,” he said. He described the proposal as a possible “catalyst.”
Commissioner Andy Bateman agreed with Weisgerber and said it would be a “big benefit” to create a neighborhood “watering hole – so to speak”.
Commissioner Al Kressler said that the residents in the large nearby apartment complexes wouldn’t be burning gasoline or diesel fuel, but using sidewalks. “It’s going to be a local watering hole. It is what it is,” he said.
City Manager Kennedy suggested the City might share the cost of the sidewalk. He said, “I think that would be a nice gesture.”
Kressler moved to accept the conditional use with the added requirement that one of the existing driveway cuts be eliminated. The motion passed with all members voting, “Yes”.
BACKGROUND:
The public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission on a conditional use permit for converting Johnny’s Car Wash on Loveland Madeira Road into a micro-brewery and tap room was rescheduled for Monday, August 8, at 7 PM.
Loveland Magazine made a public record request for the “Staff Report” that will tell readers more about the project.
BACKGROUND:
A micro-brewery and tap room are being proposed for property along the Loveland Madeira Road leading out of Loveland. A “conditional use” application was submitted to the Loveland Planning and Zoning Commission on June 21 from DVDREAL, LCC. The existing zoning for the property according to the applicant is for “commercial” use. The applicant is Dana Depenbrock. The proposal is for the location of Johnny’s Car Wash at 1555 Loveland Madeira Road.
The application says, “By granting this conditional use we are ensuring the current old, outdated car wash will be converted into a community establishment where community members can congregate, laugh, and begin their journey into other parts of Loveland.”
The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing for the proposal on Monday, August 8 at 7 PM in the council chambers at City Hall at 120 West Loveland Avenue.
Loveland, Ohio – The public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission on a conditional use permit for converting Johnny’s Car Wash on Loveland Madeira Road into a micro-brewery and tap room was rescheduled for Monday, August 8, at 7 PM.
Loveland Magazine made a public record request for the “Staff Report” that will tell readers more about the project.
BACKGROUND:
A micro-brewery and tap room are being proposed for property along the Loveland Madeira Road leading out of Loveland. A “conditional use” application was submitted to the Loveland Planning and Zoning Commission on June 21 from DVDREAL, LCC. The existing zoning for the property according to the applicant is for “commercial” use. The applicant is Dana Depenbrock. The proposal is for the location of Johnny’s Car Wash at 1555 Loveland Madeira Road.
The application says, “By granting this conditional use we are ensuring the current old, outdated car wash will be converted into a community establishment where community members can congregate, laugh, and begin their journey into other parts of Loveland.”
The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing for the proposal on Monday, August 8 at 7 PM in the council chambers at City Hall at 120 West Loveland Avenue.
![[VIDEO] Planning Commission discusses reversal of course on SPD for 12 homes on Riverside Drive](https://lovelandmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/pZ-vote-scaled.jpg)
Public hearing set for 12 single family homes being proposed along State and National Scenic Little Miami River
![[The Files] Conditional Use Application to Convert Former Car Wash Facility to a Micro-Brewery and TapRoom](https://lovelandmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/johnnys-car-wash-staff-report.jpg)