The backstory
According to city documents, Magic Petroleum requested a zoning change at the location earlier this year from commercial to light industrial for a major automobile repair facility to operate with a special use permit. Because the zoning change was not approved, Magic Petroleum representatives were back at the June 6 council meeting to request an special use permit to open an automobile repair, sales and service facility, which is permitted with a special use permit in the existing zoning district.
Services that will be provided at this location include:
- Accessory sales and installation (chrome, electronics, etc.)
- Windshield repair and installation
- Diagnostics
- Battery replacement
“They said that it was going to be more of a Car Toys type accessories store, not an auto repair shop,” Gerda said. “If this is going to be more of an auto repair shop that I compete with 300 yards away, I would be severely against this project.”
Gerda went on to say that if council were to approve the special use permit, he would be in favor of it if there were some restrictions placed in the ordinance that didn’t allow similar services that he provides.
“I would love to send them business on windshields and things like that that we don’t do,” Gerda said.
Quote of note
In explaining why council is cautious about allowing another car repair facility at that location, Council Member Shannon Dubberly expressed his concern about economic development in that area of the city.
“Our concern isn’t necessarily with Mr. Gerda; it’s for our vision of that corridor and 377 and what we want the businesses to be,” Dubberly said.
Council approved the special use permits with the following special conditions:
- The scope of the services offered shall be limited to those included in the unified development code definition for automobile repair, sales and service.
- No petroleum-based fluid services, including oil changes, shall be allowed.
- No spark plug changes shall be allowed.
