Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals approved two sets of petitions from Jonathan Anderson’s AP Development for downtown properties during its Oct. 14 meeting. A separate third petition was tabled.
The first petition set sought special exceptions to allow 24 first-floor dwelling units in a central business zoning district. The properties impacted are 752, 801, 807 and 828 E. Main St. Business owners Dan Stamper and Mike Lyons opposed the petition, citing parking concerns and lost opportunity for retail space. Dakota Collins of Revitalize Richmond and Main Street Richmond supported the petition, asking for “a little bit of faith” for a “downtown of tomorrow.” The board received six letters with four opposing.
Board members expressed concerns about parking and activity the rental spaces could draw. Anderson reassured his staff would not tolerate delinquent behavior. Once the public hearing closed, council approved the four petitions 4-1. Rob Tidrow voted no on each.
The second petition set requested a variance of development standards for dwelling units less than the minimum dwelling unit size of 700 sq. ft. with an average of 900 sq ft. for 752, 726, 728, 801, 807 and 828 E. Main. With no public commentary, the public hearing was closed.
Six letters were received with four in opposition citing a draw of undesirable living options and possibly adopting a new 700 sq. ft. minimum standard to encourage long-term housing.
With efficiency and studio apartments not defined in the current law, Anderson clarified that their studio apartments have the furnishings of two- and three-bedroom units, just without a bedroom door. The board unanimously approved the petitions.
This reporting was made possible in part by Whitewater Community Television.
A version of this article appeared in the October 21 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.
