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Commission postpones site plan for proposed catalytic-converter assembly plant at 599 South Mansfield
Summary
The Planning Commission postponed action on a site plan for a catalytic-converter assembly and outdoor storage operation at 599 South Mansfield, citing missing technical details on outdoor storage screening, pedestrian access, lighting, waste collection and testing procedures.
The Planning Commission postponed consideration of a site plan for a proposed catalytic-converter assembly plant and associated outdoor storage at 599 South Mansfield, in the Ypsilanti West Commerce Park. Staff recommended postponement to allow the applicant to provide additional information addressing outdoor storage location and screening, photometrics, pedestrian access, wheel stops and truck circulation, and materials describing testing, storage and environmental controls.
Planner Josh summarized the proposal as assembly and outdoor storage on a 4.15-acre property in a production/manufacturing zoning district that allows assembly by right unless adjacent to residential zoning (it is not). Staff identified several site issues: the proposed outdoor storage partly in the front yard may require a variance or relocation to the rear yard; chain-link fencing with slats does not satisfy the screening standard in section 122.634; proposed lighting and existing lighting are nonconforming and need clarification; the parking layout needs curbed islands and wheel stops; bicycle parking is required but not proposed; and the sidewalk requirement along Mansfield remains unresolved.
A consultant for the applicant explained the stored components are fully wrapped finished units and that testing is an air-pressure leak test that does not generate odors or hazardous emissions; the applicant stated the stored units weigh 10,000–15,000 pounds and that heavy equipment is required to move them. Commissioners welcomed that explanation but agreed more detailed documentation and engineering plans were necessary before approval.
A motion to postpone the site plan passed unanimously. Staff will work with the applicant to return with requested materials including compliant screening details, a photometric plan meeting lot-line standards or explanation for variance, truck‑turning templates, documentation of materials/operations for environmental review, and provision of required bicycle parking.
