Cherry Street Club Draws Opposition in Hartford City

From the Hartford City Common Council meeting on November 2, 2026

Residents opposed a proposed private club at 221 North Cherry Street during Hartford City's Nov. 2 council meeting, ahead of a county zoning hearing scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Blackford County Courthouse.

Petitioner Patricia Villafana Razo is seeking a special exemption, or permission for the proposed use, in an R3 residential zone. Speakers said they were concerned about loud music and larger parties. They also raised traffic and safety concerns near homes, churches and preschools. Those were objections to the proposal, not findings that those problems would occur.

The property first drew public objections in March. Two residents addressed the Board of Zoning Appeals at its March 17 meeting, saying the former church was being prepared to host parties, weddings and dances in a residential zone. The speakers described chairs and sound equipment being moved into the building and a lot being graveled for food trucks. One resident said the parking lots once tied to the church had been sold to other owners.

Mayor Dan Eckstein and City Attorney Tyler Rotstein said Hartford City ceded zoning authority to Blackford County in 1978. The county zoning appeals board, rather than the city council, will decide the request.

A hearing notice read at the meeting said written comments may also be filed with the board secretary. The city council took no vote on the proposed club.

Source: YouTube transcript — Hartford City - City Council Meeting (with audio) - November 2, 2027

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.