Plan board rejects industrial park near Honda plant

California-based Panattoni Development LLC asked to change the zoning from agricultural to industrial in order to develop the land for light manufacturing and warehousing.

Projects like the proposed industrial park are being encouraged by Gov. Mitch Daniels to take advantage of spinoff jobs from the $550 million plant.

The developer was represented by Baker & Daniels attorney Joseph Scimia, who helped the Japanese automaker buy 1,700 acres nearby.

However, more than 50 appeared at the Plan Board meeting to protest, said David Neuman, Decatur County area plan director and building commissioner.

Panattoni hasn’t appealed to the county commission, Neuman said. But if it does, the appeal will be accompanied by his recommendation to approve the request.