Plan commission approves temporary trailers for ID Logistics for up to three months or until occupancy

The Kenosha City Plan Commission approved Thursday a temporary-use permit allowing four temporary trailers at ID Logistics' facility at 622270 Seventh Avenue for up to three months or until issuance of an occupancy permit, subject to conditions including relocating the trailers away from the building to increase separation from loading and egress areas.

ID Logistics representatives said the trailers are an interim solution while they complete permits and tenant improvements for a permanent structure. Company representatives told the commission the trailers would support hiring and training as the facility ramps up to a forecasted head count in the 400—430 range by early next year. The trailers will be located inside a closed area on the west side of the building and are intended to provide restroom, break and lunch facilities for temporary employees; the applicant said potable water and sanitary waste will be managed with holding tanks and that the trailers will use standalone generators rather than tapping building utilities.

Staff reminded the commission that the ordinance requires temporary trailer requests be considered by the commission and that, historically, staff has generally recommended denial when applications raised concerns about permanence and maintenance. Staff recommended conditions that included moving the trailers into the parking area to create separation from the building and limiting the duration to a short term. Commissioner comments at the hearing varied; several commissioners supported a short-term approval given the applicant—s plan, while others cautioned against temporary uses becoming de facto permanent fixtures.

Alderman of the Sixteenth District said the trailers are not visible from nearby residences and indicated comfort with a short-duration approval. One commissioner proposed extending the requested two-month period to three months to allow reasonable time for unanticipated delays; the commission adopted a motion to approve a three-month timeframe or until occupancy is obtained, whichever happens first. The motion passed by voice vote with the chair voting aye.

Staff said the approval includes the requirement that trailers be removed when an occupancy permit is issued and urged the applicant to comply with the conditions. The applicant said they will remove the trailers when the permanent facility is ready.