Vet Clinic Proposal Finds Support, Concerns

A proposal for an animal hospital/veterinary clinic on Howell Avenue got support from the Oak Creek Plan Commission but also some concerns from residents of the neighborhood.

The as-yet-unnamed clinic at 8020 S. Howell Ave., next to Chase Bank. Business representatives are seeking a rezoning of the property and a conditional-use permit.

A public hearing will be held in December prior to a final vote by the Oak Creek Common Council, but the Plan Commission unanimously recommended the proposal.

Officials said the clinic is a good fit for the neighborhood. Two years ago, a proposal for a Firestone fell through after strong opposition from residents.

"It's time to get a good use on this site," real estate broker Kurt Klapperich said. "An animal hospital/clinic is certainly a good step forward."

Residents at a Plan Commission meeting Tuesday were concerned about a second part of the plan that calls for future development to the south of the proposed clinic, closer to homes on Susan Drive.

Property owner Rushan Sinani has no specific business lined up, but envisions someday having a small-scale office or medical building on the southern portion of the land, according to a report to Plan Commission members.

Ideally, the animal hospital would get up and running first and "set the tone" for the next development, Klapperich said.

If and when a second building is proposed, officials said it would have to be far enough back from homes and include a buffer between the neighborhood and the development.