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Monday, members of the Wheeling Planning Commission approved a subdivision request made by the Woda Group for the Labelle Cut Nail Plant in South Wheeling, so the company may demolish the historic factory this spring and construct 40 townhouses.
A subdivision is required by the developer for tax purposes. The site will eventually host phase two and three of the LaBelle Greene development. Glen Schultz, vice president of development and pre-construction for the Woda Group, said each phase possesses its own tax identification number and must reside on its own piece of property in order to reflect this.
In another matter, commissioners allowed for a zoning map amendment Monday to loosen restrictions for downtown property on and near Eoff and 16th streets intended for redevelopment.
While the decision to adjust the corresponding section of the city from Educational Medical Office and industrial zoning to D-2 Downtown Medium Density was a generalized suggestion from city staff, the idea was prompted by West Virginia Northern Community College's recent acquisition of the former Wesco Distribution building at 1803 Eoff St.
The school has not specified any plans for the property, but it would require the zoning change to act on such intentions. According to Assistant Director of Economic and Community Development Tom Connelly, the city's EMO district inhibits retail and restaurants to place priority on developments which reflect its acronym. Industrial zoning does not allow for educational uses.
The commission approved the change unanimously, with Vice Chairman Michael Leo abstaining due to his involvement with the college.
In other business, an amendment was made to Wheeling's zoning text to implement a maximum of a zero foot property setback for future downtown construction. This matter was also approved unanimously.