GetGo Rezoning Will Require Ward Approval

Developer Lance Osborne told city officials he'll accept their ballot language requiring a zoning change for a GetGo convenience store/gas station that is part of his Shoppes at Brainard Crossing project.

"We are in agreement with the concept of the ordinance," he told City Council at a committee meeting on Tuesday. "Our attorney will have to make it conform with our ."

The development, planned for the former Catalano's grocery site at Brainard and Wilson Mills roads, would feature 25,000 square feet of retail space at the back of the property and a 5,500-square-foot GetGo convenience store/gas station closer to Wilson Mills.

The property is zoned for local business use. Last year, Osborne circulated petitions in an attempt to allow gas stations under local business zoning. He's now agreed to seek a lot split and rezoning the GetGo portion of the property for motor service use.

"I want to say that we're very pleased that you're taking this position," Council President Cathy Murphy said. "We all feel that this demonstrates your willingness to work with us."

Murphy added that Osborne and Giant Eagle could have continued to pursue a plan that did not involve rezoning, which city officials stressed was needed to ensure that a ballot issue would have to be approved not only citywide, but in Ward 4 as well.

"They could have gone their own way," she said. "I think we should likewise cooperate."

The next step will be a May 14 appearance before the Planning and Zoning Commission for the lot split. Meanwhile, Law Director Tim Paluf will determine what variances would be needed so they can become part of the proposed development agreement between Osborne and the city.

Murphy said the agreement will help address signs, hours of operation and other issues of interest to nearby residents.

"We can address some of their concerns in a pro-active manner," she said.