Chick-fil-a is attempting to build a third location in Bloomington but is running into roadblocks with the Board of Zoning Appeals.
The company’s proposed site is near I-69 at the intersection of Kimble Dr. and 3rd St. The site would require six exemptions from city regulations that ensure aesthetics and safety. The requested exemptions involve parking, reduced landscaping and setback distances from property lines.
Chick-fil-a consultant Brian Kizer told the board that city regulations make it nearly impossible to build a restaurant with a drive-thru on the property. He said approving the variances would be mutually beneficial.
“[Chick-Fil-A] brings more people to the city of Bloomington that are on their way from Indy going south,” Kizer said. “It provides tax benefits and lots of jobs, and I feel like it's a net win.”
Shaun Walker, principal development lead for Chick-fil-a, said the company has been looking for a location for more than five years and this is the only one available that matches its needs.
Bloomington Chamber of Commerce president Eric Spoonmore supported approving the exemptions, saying the city should welcome economic development since Senate Bill 1 was passed limiting property tax revenue.
“We need to lean into projects that are going to deliver more revenues to our communities,” Spoonmore said. “When we're looking at budget shortfalls with the city government alone of tens of millions of dollars, now is the time to be welcoming business into our community.”
Spoonmore said Chick-fil-a has supported many Chamber of Commerce community initiatives, and he urged the board to approve the exemptions.
Despite the appeals, Board President Jo Throckmorton said Chick-fil-a should create a plan that needs fewer exemptions.
“Because of the site, it makes it difficult for you to have the type of traffic flow and the type of parking you want,” Throckmorton said. “That leads me to believe that it's not really the most ideal place for you to put this.”
The board approved one of the six requested exemptions and instructed Chick-Fil-A to work with the city on a site plan.
“I think that this is going to be a parking and car backup nightmare in this particular area,” Throckmorton said. “I just think that we're cutting too many corners to try to jam it into this."
