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Board approves Fisher Auto Parts' application for retail use at former Dollar General on Monroe Street
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Summary
The board granted a special exception allowing Fisher Auto Parts to occupy about 7,500 square feet at 2431 Monroe Street for retail auto parts; staff recommended approval, and neighbors and property managers told the board parking and lighting issues had been addressed.
The La Porte Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special-exception petition Thursday to allow Fisher Auto Parts to open a retail auto-parts store at 2431 Monroe Street in the former Dollar General space.
Brandon Elam, real estate manager for Fisher Auto Parts, and regional manager Jim Walsh told the board the company will relocate an existing La Porte-area store to the Monroe Street site and operate a retail auto-parts outlet; they emphasized that the proposed use is retail only and does not include vehicle repair.
Planning staff presented the petition and recommended approval, noting the B-1 Neighborhood Commercial zoning district allows retail auto-parts stores with a special exception and that the proposed use is consistent with neighboring commercial and residential properties. Staff confirmed the use would not involve exterior repair activities and that the scale of activity is akin to other walk-in retail uses.
Donald Johns, the property manager for the building owner, told the board the parking had been expanded to 38 spaces (from 19) and that lighting improvements had been made to comply with city requests. Property owner and neighboring-business representative Greg Engstrom also spoke in favor of the redevelopment and said building improvements would enhance the area.
The board voted to approve Special Exception Use petition 25-03 to allow the retail auto parts store at the addressed leased space of approximately 7,500 square feet. The motion carried with no opposing votes recorded.
The approval is conditioned on adherence to the special-exception standards for the B-1 district and on the fact that the use does not include automotive repair. Fisher representatives said they will complete tenant-fit work and follow sign and permit requirements before opening.
