The proposal, presented by attorney Chad Dunn on behalf of Union LLC, promises to revitalize a vacant property by introducing a community-friendly indoor playground. The business, Extreme Energy, led by CEO Vic Seagal, plans to employ local staff and emphasize physical play over electronic entertainment, fostering social interaction among children. The indoor facility will operate primarily during evenings and weekends, avoiding peak hours of the adjacent medical office, Kesler Rehabilitation Center.

A central topic during the meeting was the parking situation. Seagal reassured the board by highlighting successful parking management strategies from other locations, which include shared parking and carpooling arrangements. He stated, “I don’t see that being a problem,” underscoring his confidence in the adequacy of the existing parking resources.

Christian Quaido, a professional engineer, clarified that the facility’s use remains categorized as indoor recreational, similar to its predecessor, thus not necessitating additional parking spaces. He acknowledged a miscalculation in the site plan regarding parking needs. The board considered the impact of the proposed facility on local traffic and parking availability, ultimately finding the arrangements satisfactory.

Further testimony from Robert Hudac, a professional planner, supported the application by highlighting the benefits of adaptively reusing the existing structure. Hudac emphasized that the new facility aligns with the neighborhood’s character and the township’s master plan, which encourages diverse uses that enhance community wellness. He noted the indoor playground would provide a safe, weather-independent environment for children, promoting general welfare without altering the building’s footprint or character.

Despite the parking shortfall, the board appreciated the proposal’s potential benefits, recognizing its alignment with community desires for accessible recreational spaces. Board members expressed their support, citing the facility’s suitability for the location and its positive impact on the community. The absence of public opposition during the meeting reinforced the board’s favorable stance.

The board’s approval included a D1 variance, as the indoor recreational use is not typically permitted in the neighborhood commercial zone. The variance for parking was also granted, considering the historical coexistence of the gym and medical office without issues. Hudac’s testimony reinforced that the proposal met both the positive and negative criteria for the requested variances, facilitating the project’s advancement.

Following the testimonies and discussions, the board moved to approve the application with a unanimous roll call vote. The formal resolution is set to be passed on September 10th.