Public Hearing on the request of Jessica Powell, architect, representing Laura and Stephen Rice, 2910 Fontenay Road, to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a variance to the side yard setback requirements. The applicant proposes to construct a circular stairway from the second floor to the rear yard ground level. The applicant proposes the circular, open metal stair unit, on the rear corner of the house extending to 9 feet 2 inches from the side property line. Code requires a 15-foot side yard setback in the SF-1 Single Family Residential zoning district. This new stairway is proposed to provide access from the second floor flat roof to the rear yard patio and pergola.

Public Hearing on the request of Elizabeth Billings, Around the Table Yarns, 20085 Chagrin Boulevard, to the City Planning Commission for a conditional use permit in order to operate a classroom space for various types of knitting in this commercial space. The applicant proposes individual and group lessons and knitting classes for various age groups in their former retail space in Shaker Plaza. A variety of classes with up to six participants will operate at 1 to 2 tables in the 1,000 square foot space. A use similar to a specialized instructional school requires a conditional use permit in the CM Commercial Mixed Use zoning district. Around the Table Yarns retail operations are now located in a storefront on the other side of the shopping center. A conditional use permit requires Council confirmation.

Public Hearing on the request of Susan Frankel, owner’s representative, 20021 Farnsleigh Road, to the City Planning Commission for a conditional use permit in order to operate an event center in the Van Aken District. The applicant proposes to use the second floor space over the Paloma restaurant as a gathering and event center. A conditional use permit is required for a use similar to an assembly hall in the CM Commercial Mixed Use zoning district. The space would be used for small to medium size private events from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., available for the Van Aken District tenants use and for the public to rent. Expected use is 20 to 30 times in a calendar year. Council confirmation is required for a conditional use permit.

Public meeting on the request of the City of Shaker Heights, to the City Planning Commission for review and adoption of the Van Aken Bikeway Plan. The City has prepared a plan to develop a bikeway on Van Aken Boulevard from Farnsleigh Road to Lee Road. The one-way, buffered and protected bikeway is proposed on both east and westbound Van Aken Boulevard connecting to the Lee Road Action Plan improvements, the Van Aken District, and the surrounding neighborhoods. The plan was prepared during a public process including public meetings, a survey, and bike/walk audit in February, March, and April of 2023. The City Planning Commission reviews City plans and studies and makes a recommendation to Council on adoption.