Monrovia reports progress on auto‑repair business compliance; several shops remain under review

Monrovia staff reported progress implementing the automobile repair facility operational standards adopted by the council last year.

Community Development Director Sherry Bermejo said the ordinance, adopted in June of last year, established minimum operating requirements and a permit path (automobile business operation permit or ABAP) for legal nonconforming businesses that need waivers. "To date, I'm happy to report that we have 8 businesses that have successfully completed the ABAP process," Bermejo told the council.

When the ordinance was adopted staff counted 58 auto repair businesses in the city, and approximately 80% were identified as legal nonconforming uses that would be brought under the new requirements. At adoption staff estimated about 14 businesses would require an ABAP; Bermejo said two of those initially flagged were later determined not to need the permit and four remain in the final phase: one has submitted an application that is under staff review and three have received citations for noncompliance.

Bermejo described a planned enforcement and monitoring approach that includes a task force methodology to increase site visits and compliance assistance, and she said the goal is to bring the remaining businesses under the permit program rather than push any out of business. The city will report back on progress and may provide a brief update in conjunction with the forthcoming vendor ordinance work.

The council thanked staff for the implementation efforts and for using the development review committee and liaison participation to support applicants through the process.