Planning commission approves special-use permit for auto repair shop at 1603 S. State St.

The City of Lockport Planning & Zoning Commission on March 11 approved a special-use permit to allow an indoor automobile repair business, including by-appointment Internet auto sales, at 1603 South State Street.

The permit was granted after staff and the applicant described the site as a previously used repair location with an existing 1,200-square-foot concrete block garage and nonconforming lot dimensions. Kimberly (staff member) said the property currently has a vehicle lift, two overhead doors, an office area and plumbing for vehicle drains, and that the proposed business expects one to two employees once established.

Staff recommended approval with conditions intended to limit outdoor activity and bring the site into better conformity with city code. Those conditions include: prohibiting outdoor storage of vehicles, parts or tires; no outdoor vehicle display; removal of an existing trailer within six months of approval; requiring replacement or screening of the rear chain-link fence when it needs replacement; and a staff review of the unpaved rear parking area two years after approval to determine whether gravel may remain in lieu of paving. Kimberly also noted any required signage and outdoor lighting would need separate permits and review.

Applicant Chris Gronsky described his plans as turning a longtime hobby—working on classic BMWs and other collector cars—into a small business. "I'm Chris Gronsky, owner of 1603 South State. Looking to, as Kimberly said, start a little repair shop… once I establish, looking to replace the fence down the line… probably vinyl, do some more repairs and keep the building clean, organized, and within the codes," Gronsky said.

A neighbor, Larry Brogan, who owns Tattoo City and the Flower of Life Art Gallery at 1601 South State Street, spoke in support, saying the applicant had improved the property and had not caused problems when a prior auto repair operation was on the site. "He has been a great neighbor… He keeps the weeds at bay and all of that sort of stuff," Brogan said.

Commissioner Garland moved to approve the special-use permit as described in staff's suggested motion with the change that the rear parking area be subject to review in two years rather than requiring paving within two years. Wheeler seconded. The roll call recorded the following votes in favor: Wheeler, Garland, Mulvaney, Likens, Peters, Cabarose and Quentin. The motion passed.

The commission noted the item will proceed to the Committee of the Whole on April 2 as the next step in the city's review process.