Planning commission delays decision on tire-storage site after owner absence; Nov. 17 target

The Planning Commission postponed action on a site plan for open storage of used and disposal tires at 13406 East 9 Mile Road to the Nov. 17 meeting after the petitioner said the property owner was unlikely to fund hard-surface and landscape improvements and the owner did not appear at the meeting.

Petitioner Milad Yousaf (A to Z Tire Shop) told commissioners he occupies the building under a month-to-month rental and cannot unilaterally pay for recommended improvements such as hard surfacing, curbing, restored lawn areas or a formal trash enclosure. Planning staff had recommended multiple conditions including showing whether the repair shop is minor or major auto repair, a note on how often removed tires are taken off site, replacing portions of pavement in the front setback with landscaping, limits on outdoor retail sales, and a possible variance to retain gravel parking.

Planning staff also suggested replacing blue-tarp screening on the chain link fence with slats, providing an accessible parking space, narrowing an 80-foot-wide driveway on 9 Mile to roughly 50 feet, and removing the driveway to Heusner (Huebner) Avenue for safety reasons. Multiple public-works and utility agencies submitted technical comments (Comcast, DTE, Macomb County Public Works) stating no objection or noting permit needs.

Commissioners emphasized the property owner must be at the next hearing to discuss who will pay for required improvements. Commissioner Halawadi moved to postpone the item and to send a letter requesting owner attendance; the motion carried on roll call. Planning staff advised the petitioner to coordinate with the owner and the department and to return with revised materials for the Nov. 17 meeting (or later if more time is needed).