Auburn Common Council votes clear way for apartments

By Dave Kurtz | KPC Media - The Star

Three ordinances paving the way for a new apartment complex passed in votes by the Auburn Common Council Tuesday night.

Landowners Mahesh and Dimpal Chaudhari of Auburn intend to build 20 duplex structures, creating 40 “upscale” units that would be known as Sunrise Apartments.

The council voted to annex 8.79 acres of land at 3326 S.R. 8, directly south of DeKalb Health hospital, as requested by the Chaudharis.

The council also approved a fiscal plan required for the annexation. It says the apartments are expected to add 60 residents, with “negligible” impact on city government expenses.

The annexation and fiscal plan passed on second and final votes. The council also approved a rezoning of the apartments site on the first or two required votes.

The zoning change to multi-family residential use represents a change from the present “general commercial” designation.

The council also voted to re-establish an equipment fund for the Auburn-Union Township fire protection territory.

Councilman Mike Walter expressed appreciation for a new streetlight at 14th and Van Buren streets in his southwest council district. He had been requesting it for several weeks.

“It illuminates that intersection beautifully with minimal glare,” Walter said.