(KLZA)-- Following two public hearings Monday night, Falls City Council members approved actions, furthering efforts to expand two Falls City businesses.

First was discussion on a proposed expansion of Armbruster Motor Company in the 1600 block between Towle and Barada Streets.  Lincoln attorney Andrew Willis discussed the project, seeking to use tax increment financing for a 15-year period. 

Willis said the project to would include a shop area approximately 6,000 square feet and office and parts department space of just over 4,000 feet. This is estimated to increase the valuation of the building site from approximately $65-thousand to half a million dollars.

The TIF funds would be used to pay for infrastructure improvements including curbs, city water extension, sewer extension, drainage, storm sewer improvements, new sidewalks, and the reconfiguration of electrical lines. 

Willis noted the project is ready to being with Council approval.  

Council members voted unanimously to approve the redevelopment plan for Armbruster Motors.

The second business expansion project is more controversial with some neighbors. Kylie Vollan, is wanting to move and expand her pet grooming business, moving to a site on the southwest corner of 7th and Morton Streets.  She wants to add doggy daycare to her services in addition to grooming. 

The site is zoned for residential, not light industrial. Charles Hayes who lives across the street is against the proposed zoning change. 
Hayes said he thinks it would be “spot zoning” to approve the change, would break the nuisance law and said if approved, he would contact the Nebraska Real Estate Commission.

Randy Coulter, who lives on the northeast corner of the intersection also spoke against the change, noting the uncertainty. He said the residential zoning allows a bit of a buffer between his home and the industrial area. 

Laura Coulter also spoke against the change, she said dogs barking, and traffic from people dropping off and picking up pets would not allow her to enjoy living in her home. 

Following a lengthy public hearing and discussion and questions by the Council, the vote to approve the zoning change on first reading was 3-3with Council members Don Ferguson, John Vaughn and Kirby Roubidoux  voting yes, and Council members Jim Wisdom, Anthony Nussbaum and Judy Murphy casting nay votes. Councilman Mike Dougherty was absent and Council member Angie Nolte, declared she had a conflict of interest, she and Vollan are related. 

Mayor Jerry Oliver broke the tie voting yes.

Originally, the Planning Commission recommended the zoning change be denied. Vollan appealed the decision to the Council. 

Prior to the public hearing on the proposal, the Council voted 6-1 with Councilman Wisdom voting no, to approve an ordinance allowing pet grooming and pet training as a permitted use in a light industrial zoned area.

That will need to pass two more readings for final approval.