Last Summer, Local commercial fisherman Jim Shaffer took over a former Arby's building on West 8th street in hopes of opening a fresh fish market. It's still not open.

Any new business owner looking to take over a building must complete several steps when re-zoning. Architect Michael Grab walked us through the process.

"Call the zoning department in the township," said Grab, "Ask them, 'Can I use this particular building... is that an acceptable use for the property?'" 

After getting the green light from the Township, Grab tells us the next step is to contact Building Inspection Underwriters, the code compliance agency contracted by Millcreek Township.

"Their job is to review it for code compliance. In some cases, you don't need it. If it's a simple move in and it's of the same use group, then it's easy. But in the case of the Arby's, that was considered an A2 restaurant use to a M mercantile fish store, well that's a change of use." 

Once the Building Inspection Underwriters (BIU) approve of the building, the township will sign off on a Certificate of Occupancy. Erie News Now visited the BIU office and made numerous calls, but we were unable to connect with an inspector.

According to the township, new business owners should be advised that these steps can be a lengthy process.

"On average, it can take up to 3-6 months depending," said Millcreek Township zoning officer Matthew Puz.

Business Owner Jim Shaffer tells us that he hit several delays and roadblocks when trying to open Presque Isle Fish & Farm.

"This all started about a year ago. The building had unexpected potholes. We needed to bring in a new water line, new gas, new electrical service. That took a little bit of time," said Shaffer. "Now, we are in the process of we re-zoned, we've had the health department in, everything is good there. We are just trying to figure out the BIU process, which has been a little confusing for me. And obviously time consuming because here we are March of 2024 still waiting to see if we can open the door and actually let people in."

For more information on Presque Isle Fish & Farm, head to their Facebook page.