SCHERERVILLE | The Town Council is waiting to make a decision about a proposed new zoning map for Schererville after a developer expressed concerns.
Todd Olthof, of Olthof Homes, said property for The Preserve residential subdivision would have R1 residential zoning under the new map.
Olthof said the property near 91st Avenue and Burr Street was rezoned by the town several years ago from R1 residential to a residential planned unit development.
"Zoning doesn't expire," Olthof said.
Without the planned unit development zoning, Olthof Homes wouldn't be able to accomplish plans it set for the proposed development.
Olthof said the economy has prevented the project from advancing, but Olthof Homes remains excited about the development.
Town Manager Bob Volkmann and Town Attorney David Austgen said zoning can expire if a development doesn't start within a certain time after it receives town approval.
They said Olthof could go through the rezone process again.
The council ultimately decided to defer taking action on the zoning map, which received a favorable recommendation from the Plan Commission. Councilmen also sent the map back to the Plan Commission so it can sort out the situation with The Preserve property.
Councilman Jerry Tippy said the land in which The Preserve would be established is the largest piece of undeveloped property in the town.
He said it's necessary to ensure the town is handling the situation correctly because "this is a very important piece of property."
Olthof said he is happy the council decided to have the Plan Commission continue to review the zoning map.
"Things get done when we work together," Olthof said.
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