Roanoke City Council reverses rezoning decision, paving way for a coffee shop

Roanoke, Virginia – Following prolonged deliberations, the Roanoke City Council has given the green light to a rezoning proposition that will transform the antiquated caretaker’s cottage at Fishburn Park into a café. This comes after a significant reversal of the council’s initial refusal to permit this project in May, with the decision resulting from a 6 to 1 vote.

The prospective proprietors, Justin and Keri vanBlaricom, credit their adolescent daughter as the visionary behind the café concept. The couple, however, confesses that the process was far more tumultuous than they had anticipated.

Justin vanBlaricom shared, “I did, did think it was going to pass. I think a lot of people thought it would pass the first time,” revealing their early optimism about the venture. He further clarified that the council’s agreement to rezoning was a prerequisite for their acquisition of the property.

The initial plan to rezone the estate encompassed 1.1 acres of land, including the structure itself. Stephanie Moon-Reynolds, a member of the Roanoke City Council, disclosed that certain adjustments to the proposition were necessary to gain her approval.

“During the discussions, we came up with ‘what about if we considered rezoning point six acres, 6/10 acres, and leaving the .5 as open space,” said Moon-Reynolds. She further elaborated that while the vanBlaricoms would still secure the entire 1.1 acres, they must designate half an acre for recreational purposes alone.

An additional key concession made between the vanBlaricoms and the city council was according the City of Roanoke a preemptive right to repurchase the estate in future circumstances.

Vice Mayor Joe Cobb articulated, “If there became an issue with the business not progressing as they hope in a number of years, then the city would have the first right to buy back the property.” Cobb suggested these uncertainties initially deterred the council’s approval in the initial vote. As the solitary supporter of the rezoning scheme in May, Cobb expressed satisfaction with the unanimous endorsement following the recent council gathering.

Cobb stated, “It will be really lovely to see this cottage that has been deteriorating for years, restored,” demonstrating his optimism about the project.

Despite securing the council’s approval, Justin vanBlaricom acknowledged lingering anxieties concerning the endeavor. He said, “We thought we had it before, and it turned, but I feel like we all, everybody’s voice has been heard, and we’re all on board and kind of working together more now than we were before.”

vanBlaricom disclosed that the subsequent phase would commence the following week with the submission for rezoning. In August, the couple will present their plan to the planning commissioners and the city council once more before the sale can be formally ratified.

This decision has been met with some opposition from local residents. Nevertheless, vanBlaricom has reassured the community that they will ensure a respectful and considerate construction process, aiming to provide a positive addition to the local area.