Warsaw Board of Zoning Appeals Monday approved a variance from development standards for the Beaman Home for an addition to its existing facility. The shelter provides housing accommodations for women who have been in domestic abuse situations and their children. The $1.8 million renovation of their new facility on Parker Street is expected to begin after spring. They have previously been granted a variance from development standards to allow a 17-foot rear setback. The request Monday was for a 3-foot side setback to allow for the addition. Pat Gross, pre-construction manager for DJ Construction Inc., Goshen, spoke on behalf of the variance. He said the current home houses six bedrooms with a dorm-type space. Plans are for the addition to accommodate 12 bedrooms with two bunk beds per room. Gross said the expansion will allow for more housing space and will accommodate 48 women and children. Construction on the addition will begin at the end of April and be completed by the end of December. In addition to the 12 bedrooms, there will be a playroom and administrative offices will be moved from the K21 Health Services Pavilion. In other business, the board re-elected Tom Allen to serve as president, and Rick Keeven to serve as vice president.
