An application from Auto Works Inc. to amend a special permit and add spray booths at 921 Main St. prompted extensive comment and concern at the Jan. 7 Woburn City Council meeting, with councilors and at least one resident opposing the proposal because of smell, emissions and proximity to homes and a preschool.

Attorney James Giuliano appeared for the applicant and said the business is pursuing technical controls but acknowledged the council’s concerns and the need for expert testimony to demonstrate emission control and odor prevention. “The big thing…is the smell,” Giuliano said; he told the council his client intends to seek expert presenters if the matter continues.

Councilor Lou D’Amambro and others argued the location is inappropriate for a spray booth. “There’s no way to contain the odor of a spray booth from a body shop,” Councilor Lou D’Amambro said, citing conversations with the EPA and paint manufacturers and raising concerns about fugitive VOCs from masking, rags and disposal. Councilors also noted nearby uses including a daycare and elementary school and elderly housing.

Residents and councilors asked for information about afterburner technologies and filtration; Councilor D’Amambro said published material and federal guidance cast doubt on the reliability of afterburners in routine, long‑term service and highlighted operation and maintenance challenges. A resident, Ken Parley, spoke in support of the council’s caution while also praising other improvements at the site.

After discussion the council voted to request legal advice from the city solicitor and appropriate counsel on the options for denying the application and to continue the public hearing to Jan. 21, 2025. Councilors said they want independent technical and legal review before making a final decision.