Council gives first reading to special-use permit for pallet recycling facility at 201 S. Cedar, conditions set after neighbors raised fire and dust concerns

Valley Center — The City Council approved first reading of an ordinance to issue a special-use permit for a pallet recycling facility at 201 South Cedar, but attached conditions and a closely worded timeline after nearby residents and staff raised safety and nuisance concerns.

Zoning staff summarized inspections and outreach City zoning staff told the council that inspectors first became aware of operations at the former Martin Solvents building earlier this summer. Inspectors and fire officials reported multiple compliance items: substantial outdoor pallet piles, partial use of the property outside the building while electrical and fire-suppression work were pending, portable buildings placed on-site that require anchoring, and an incomplete sprinkler system that staff said must be expanded to cover the entire structure because of the planned indoor activities.

Staff recommended approval of a special-use permit only after the facility comes…