Robert Ellis and Pink Development and Construction LLC Persevere Amidst Opposition for 62-Unit

Press Release: Robert Ellis and Pink Development and Construction LLC Persevere Amidst Opposition for 62-Unit Mid-Rise Project in Columbus
August 8, 2024
Columbus, Ohio-Robert Ellis, principal of Pink Development and Construction LLC, continues to champion a transformative 62-unit mid-rise residential project in Columbus, despite recent setbacks. Following a second rejection from the Development Commission, Ellis is now working to have the proposal drafted into legislation for a City Council vote expected in September or October 2024. Ellis remains optimistic about City Council's approval but is prepared to litigate to protect property rights if necessary.
Project Overview: From 20 Stories to 8 Stories with Concessions
The development, originally proposed as a 20-story tower, has been reduced to an 8-story, 89-foot structure in response to feedback from city officials and community stakeholders. The site, currently zoned for manufacturing, would be transformed into a commercial planned development, bringing much-needed residential units to the area. This project aligns with Columbus’s urban development goals and follows in the footsteps of similar projects, such as the six-story residential development by National Church Residences at the corner of Broad and Glenwood on the same street. However, Ellis's site presents unique challenges due to its smaller size and complex zoning issues.
Support and Opposition: Navigating City Departments and Area Commissions
The majority of city departments have expressed support for the project, recognizing its potential to enhance the urban fabric of Columbus. However, the proposal has faced significant opposition from the Planning Division and the Franklinton Area Commission. These bodies have raised concerns that Ellis argues are irrelevant to the rezoning phase and better suited for the final compliance plan, which addresses civil and structural engineering matters.
Ellis emphasizes that the complex nature of zoning issues has led the City Council to rely heavily on the Zoning Department’s interpretations. His team has worked closely with the Zoning Department, refining the project through over ten drafts based on feedback from engineering, civil, structural, and architectural experts. The current design, known as a pencil tower due to its slender profile, is 89 feet by 33 feet-less than three times taller than it is wide, which contrasts sharply with the vertical developments common in markets like New York City or Miami.
Legal Preparedness: Challenging the Rejections
In light of the Development Commission's rejection, Ellis is prepared to challenge the decision, drawing on legal precedents where Columbus courts have overturned municipal decisions lacking substantial evidence or procedural correctness. Key cases include:
State ex rel. Ethell v. Hendrickson (2005) - Highlighting the importance of procedural due process in zoning decisions.
State ex rel. Orloff v. City of Columbus (1980) - Requiring zoning decisions to be based on substantial evidence.
Nucklos v. City of Columbus (2007) - Emphasizing the need for adherence to established procedures in zoning matters.
Hilltop Basic Resources, Inc. v. City of Columbus (2001) - Overturning a city decision due to insufficient evidence.
Ellis argues that the opposition from the Planning Division and the Franklinton Area Commission lacks merit and substantive evidence, setting the stage for potential litigation to protect property rights.
Next Steps: Legislation and City Council Vote
With the Development Commission's decision behind him, Ellis is now focused on advancing the proposal through City Council. The team is working on drafting the legislation, with a vote anticipated in September or October 2024. This legislative effort is crucial for overcoming the obstacles posed by the Planning Division and area commissions.
Call to Action: Media Engagement and Community Support
Ellis and Pink Development and Construction LLC are reaching out to news outlets and community members to garner support as the project moves forward. A video will accompany this press release, inviting those interested in covering the development to contact the team for more information. The project represents a significant opportunity to introduce innovative urban development in Columbus, particularly in challenging and underutilized areas.
For more information, please contact:
Robert Ellis
Pink Development and Construction LLC
Email: [e-mail]
Phone: [phone]

[@jamestimo-md3ql]

Awesome ❤

[@Edward-vi3sn]

Hey Rob, just wanted to let ya know they are pushing hard to prevent you from doing this here at 278 Glenwood Ave. They just hand delivered a paper speaking out against it, they are going door to door. I live like 4 house's up from this property your trying to build on. I'm not against what you are wanting to do here, I am actually for it. It's hard to picture an 8 story building there...😮. I know some of my neighbors will be against this, especially my neighbor behind me who lives a couple doors down from this. I believe he works for the Area Planning Commission. I wish I could help you bud get this done, but I'm not too sure how little old me can.

[@pinkdevelopmentandconstruction]

really appreciate it!