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Merion Village Association members delayed voting to support a Starbucks proposed for the southeast corner of Front Street and Greenlawn Avenue. Instead, they put the recommendation in the hands of member Ken Fultz, who will discuss the matter further with Starbucks representatives.

The proposal was discussed at the Nov. 7 MVA meeting.

Starbucks plans a 1,750-square-foot coffee shop with a drive-up lane and a 100-square-foot patio. The main entrance would be off Greenlawn.

Zoning would not need to be changed for a Starbucks, but the company is asking for two variances in connection with the project. The first is to allow 20 parking spaces, rather than the 25 required based on the size of the store.

The second variance would allow Starbucks to provide only six "stacking" spaces for vehicles in the drive-through, rather than the required eight spaces.

Most of those who objected to the plan said the store will cause traffic problems in the area.

Traffic is heavy along Greenlawn Avenue, which has an interchange with I-71 about one-half mile from Front Street. In addition, residents are worried that drivers trying to get in and out of the parking lot will cause problems, especially during the morning rush hour.

One resident said that drivers already make illegal left turns from the adjacent White Castle parking lot, and that the same thing would likely happen at Starbucks. Some suggested that the main entrance instead be located on Front Street.

Attorney David L. Hodge, representing Starbucks, said that he will be asking for the variances at the Nov. 27 meeting of the Columbus Board of Zoning Adjustments. That is the last step in the approval process before construction can begin next spring, he said after the meeting.

Despite their concerns over traffic, an informal show of hands indicated that about half of the MVA members at the meeting would approve the plan, as long as Starbucks pays for a "Welcome to Merion Village" sign for the corner.

Residents said that a similar sign across the street, provided by the BP gas station, indicates the entrance to the Brewery District.

They asked Fultz to meet with Hodge to discuss the sign and any other concerns. Merion Village residents wishing to provide input should call Fultz at 443-5365.

They also can attend the Nov. 27 BZA meeting, which will begin at 6 p.m. at 757 Carolyn Ave.