Crown Point Nonprofit Animal Rescue Seeks Community Support

A nonprofit animal rescue group, New Leash on Life, is calling on Crown Point residents for backing after the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals denied their rezoning request. The group aims to establish a 20,000-square-foot facility at 12430 South Court Street. At the Aug. 24 meeting, board members unanimously provided an unfavorable view of the proposed site.

The group will present their proposal to the Crown Point City Council on Sept. 8 at 101 N. East Street. A computer graphic of the proposed building highlights the facility’s design. Building contractors and nearby luxury home residents voiced concerns about noise, property values, and increased traffic. Reportedly, 60 to 70 letters opposing the project were sent to board members.

New Leash on Life founder, Donna Burrell Pace, expressed surprise at the decision. She urged supporters to communicate with council members before the next meeting. Pace emphasized the importance of the shelter, which will serve multiple purposes, including supporting domestic violence survivors through collaboration with St. Jude House.

The property currently zoned as Residential Zone 1 is an open field situated near Burrell Drive and Court Street. The area boasts other nonprofit facilities and a buffer of trees and a pond. Pace chose this site due to its proximity to community centers and the natural surroundings that provide a buffer.

BZA Vice-Chairman Jeremy Taylor opposed the petition. He stated the proposed operations differ in intensity from neighboring properties. The existing setbacks and measures were deemed inadequate for neighboring property protection.

Rick Mossell, representing a nearby subdivision, argued against the change, citing that barking dogs would be an ongoing disturbance despite the proposed noise barriers. Residents like Diana Murray echoed concerns about inevitable noise issues, comparing it to sounds they hear from the local YMCA and fairgrounds during events.

New Leash on Life’s engineering firm, DVG Team Inc., mentioned that the nearest house lies 650 feet away with substantial tree cover providing a buffer. Project manager Caleb Kreis stated the team aims to reduce resident concerns by implementing advanced design features for noise and stress reduction.

Anna Schoon from St. Jude House threw her support behind the new shelter. With 69% of people owning pets, she stressed that many survivors of dangerous situations delay leaving because of pet safety concerns. Providing a pet shelter next to their sanctuary would alleviate this issue and offer volunteering opportunities.

The Crown Point Community Foundation, another nonprofit partner, is planning to develop a facility nearby. The organization will establish an office complex at 12410 Marshall Street, promoting the region as a hub for community and for-purpose organizations.

Crown Point previously approved the foundation’s rezoning petition. Foundation president Mary Nielsen noted the area’s natural charm and walking paths for people and pets. The project aligns with the area’s civic growth, further supported by local institutions and nonprofits.