(Atlantic) Officials from Vision Atlantic will appear in front of the Board of Adjustment on Monday to consider a Conditional Use Permit Application. Vision Atlantic’s application is for the location of a day care center in a multiple family residential district, (R-4) as allowed by section 7.300(11) of the Zoning Ordinances of the City of Atlantic, Iowa, located at 1800 Olive Street.
By definition, a Conditional Use Permit allows a property owner to pursue a land use that is not automatically permitted in a zoning district but is potentially acceptable if impacts are mitigated. It is reviewed through a quasi‑judicial process, typically involving a public hearing.
The proposed new child development center would house up to 300 children for before, and after school daycare, summer childcare, and preschool.
Diane Williams former Director of the Anne Wickman, and Dan Haynes, Executive Director of the Nishna Valley Family YMCA stated in a previous interview with KSOM-KS95 News, that fifteen years ago, Southwest Iowa Family Services conducted a community survey to identify the needs essential for Atlantic’s growth and prosperity. One key issue highlighted by respondents was the significant need for childcare services. Dan Haynes emphasized that the proposed childcare center, accommodating up to 300 children, would offer much-needed stability for childcare in the Atlantic area. He also clarified a common misconception regarding the Ann W. Wickman Child Development Center—while many believe the YMCA owns it, the building belongs to the school district. The YMCA currently leases the space but will eventually lose access to it. Haynes explained that the new facility would open up multiple childcare opportunities. It would increase capacity for Atlantic and surrounding communities and allow Jack and Jill preschool students to relocate from the YMCA to the new Center, reducing the need for transportation. Ultimately, Haynes described the new Center as a “one-stop shop” for childcare services.
The hearing will begin with an opening statement from Vision Atlantic Representatives. Following the applicant’s presentation, the Board will hear statements from owners of properties that abut or are located directly opposite the subject property. These property owners will be given an opportunity to provide comments, express support or concerns, followed by statements from the General Public. Next a question-and-answer period between the Board of Adjustment, and Vision Atlantic Representatives, followed by Order Regarding the Conditional Use Permit Application by Vision Atlantic, for the property located at 1800 Olive Street that would allow for a day care center in the Multiple Family Residential District (R-4) District.
The meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, June 8, in the Atlantic City Council Chambers located at City Hall.
