Warren — The Warren City Zoning Board of Appeals on Wednesday approved a variance permitting CTT LLC to use an 11 Mile Road parcel for open storage of semi tractors and semi trailers to within 19 feet of the north (front) property line, and it rescinded earlier variances that permitted outside storage at the site.

The motion, made by Mister Cliff and supported by Mister Assessor, was approved by a majority of the board; one member voted no, citing concerns the use was self‑imposed and a detriment to the area.

Bobby McElhame, representing CTT LLC and speaking for the petitioner, said the property’s configuration—including a high‑tension power line bisecting the site—limits how far storage can be moved north without leaving inadequate room for maneuvering and backing trailers safely. He said the parcel can accommodate on‑site maneuvering and that the requested 19‑foot frontage clearance reflects the lot’s unique shape.

Planning staff read into the record that the petitioner previously received site plan approval with conditions on Nov. 18, 2024, and that staff found no issues affecting the abutting public. As a condition of the site plan approval, staff said the petitioner must plant screening—two evergreens or shrubs and two deciduous trees or shrubs—along 11 Mile to provide a visual screen for passing traffic.

During discussion, board members asked whether approval should limit the types of outdoor storage; members and the city attorney indicated the board can make the allowance specific. The approved motion limits the variance to semi tractors and semi trailers only and rescinded prior variances specific to outdoor storage. Members also clarified that employee parking and routine use by drivers to operate trucks from the site is acceptable; the board asserted the approval should not permit campers or recreational vehicles to be stored or used as living quarters on the property.

The board directed planning staff and enforcement to ensure the site plan conditions and the specific storage limitations are enforced.