The variances that were granted to allow Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay to exceed building heights are being challenged by a civil complaint issued by two business owners.  The shipyard received approval for variances to exceed the building heights of 45 feet in the city on August 25.  Studio 330 owner Hans Christian and Foxglove owner Kelly Catarozoli filed the complaint on September 24 and have businesses located directly across from the shipyard.  Christian says that the Sturgeon Bay Zoning Board of Appeals did not follow the Wisconsin state statutes regarding the strict guidelines they are subjected to in making a decision.  He believes that they have a very strong case because Bay Ship entered into a contract for work to be done on a U.S. Navy frigate before getting the variance.

Christian also adds that some members of the Zoning Board of Appeals did not act impartially.   City of Sturgeon Bay Administrator Josh Van Lieshout says the appellants are well within their rights to take the action and the Zoning Board of Appeals will be defended via the City’s insurance company.

Christian adds that their legal counsel suggests that the case taken up by the Door County Circuit Court could be remanded back to the Sturgeon Bay Zoning Board of Appeals if a decision is not rendered.  The Zoning Board of Appeals has until Wednesday, 20 days after the initial complaint filing to respond to the complaint.