Update 11/19/15 − The Dixon Construction Group received zoning approval this week from the Fortville Town Council after the developer agreed to several conditions. City officials were apprehensive about how the storage facility would affect nearby residents. During the rezoning meeting, they questioned if there was sufficient room on surrounding streets to accommodate truck traffic and expressed concerns about the property’s lighting. Dixon told officials he met with residents to discuss their worries, and most cited bright lights as a primary issue, the source reported.

One neighbor, Bill Knauer, who’s also the city’s police chief, spoke in favor of the project during the public hearing. “I think he’ll be a good neighbor. He’s been very easy to work with and communicate with, and I think everybody will be in favor of the project,” he said.

Officials also discussed whether a turn lane or accelerate/decelerate lanes would be needed for motorists turning into the facility’s entrance from Garden Street. Dixon assured the council his plans would meet the town’s standards.

The board approved the rezoning on Nov. 16 but with conditions, including the addition of hooded lighting fixtures to minimize light pollution and the prohibition of back-lit roadside signage on the site or the façade facing Garden Street. Officials also requested that the building be similar to the drawings Dixon submitted.

Once built, the storage business will pay about $99,000 in taxes annually, according to attorney and county councilman Randy Sorrell, who represented Dixon at the meeting.

Construction is expected to begin in the spring, with the facility opening in mid-May, the source reported.

9/21/15 − Matt Dixon, president of The Dixon Construction Group LLC, is seeking to rezone a parcel of land in Fortville, Ind., to build a mixed-use development that will include self-storage and a retail building. The 8.2-acre site at 710 W. Garden St. is currently zoned commercial/residential. The Hancock County Area Plan Commission (HCAPC) will consider the proposal at its Sept. 21 meeting.

The plan calls for a $2.5 million project that will include a 406-unit storage facility and retail space for three to five tenants. The 68,000-square-foot storage property would comprise some climate-controlled space and 31 vehicle-storage units. The 18,000-square-foot retail space will target contractors, such as small die, print and tool shops, Dixon told the town council. If approved, the project will be split into two phases, with the opening slated for late 2017, Dixon said.

HCAPC Executive Director Mike Dale said he plans to recommend approval. However, due to the parcel’s proximity to a residential area, he’ll request a restriction on the number of lights allowed on the property.

At least two council members expressed concern about the proposal. Robert Holland questioned whether there would be an increase in the traffic of large trucks. He also noted the lack of turn lanes into the facility. Dale noted the HCAPC can determine the best location for the property’s driveway, which could reduce noise. Janet Manship said she wants to hear the public’s opinion.

Dixon is one of four investors in the development. All live in the region and intend to operate the property, Dixon said.

Dixon Construction specializes in the development of banking, chain, industrial and retail construction projects across the Midwest.

Sources: