Zoning board grants special permit for Comiskey Automotive at 381 East Broadway

The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals on Nov. 18 granted a special permit allowing continued automotive repair at 381 East Broadway, with board members and public commenters clarifying the business will not dispense fuel or conduct vehicle sales.

Patrick Comiskey, the applicant, and Attorney Glenny presented the application, describing the business as a long-running automotive repair operation that the applicant purchased in 2014. "This is a business that's been there for decades," Attorney Glenny said, arguing the use is compatible with the neighborhood and that there have been no complaints or public-safety incidents tied to the operation during the applicant's ownership.

Attorney Glenny and Comiskey told the board the proposed operation will include light motor-vehicle service such as oil and fluid changes but not fuel sales. James Davis, a neighbor, spoke in support and said he had experienced no problems with the business.

Board members reviewed the zoning table of uses and discussed whether the applicable entry is item 44 or 45 in the table; the board confirmed the updated table and agreed the use fits the "motor vehicle light service" category and does not authorize a gas station. After a motion and second, the board approved the special permit by voice vote.

The board did not record any conditions beyond those required by the zoning ordinance; the applicant was advised to coordinate with the building commissioner to ensure any required endorsements or permits are on file before changing operations.