Peabody junk‑dealer/flea‑market application withdrawn without prejudice after zoning, parking concerns

Peabody — An application for a junk dealer’s license that would have allowed a community flea market at 20 Wallace Street was withdrawn without prejudice Thursday after councilors said more information was needed about zoning and parking.

Attorney John Kelty appeared for Constellation Gemini LLC and said his client, Carlos Manuel Estrada Monroy, intended to operate a primarily indoor community flea market, open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, with some used goods but not a pawnshop. Local business owner Joel Whitman told the council he supported appropriate use of the site but urged the council and its advisors to determine the best use for downtown.

Councilor Peach and others said the activity had been operating outdoors over the summer and that the application raised questions about whether the proposed use fits the zoning table and whether a special permit and a parking plan would be required. "I don't think that this is a standalone junk dealer's license," Peach said, and asked for an opinion from the building commissioner before moving forward.

Attorney Kelty asked to withdraw the application without prejudice so his client could return to the new council with a fuller packet. Councilor Peach moved to allow the withdrawal without prejudice; the council approved the motion by roll call, 11–0.

The council also received late communications from community development and agreed that if the applicant returns the matter will be scheduled before the new council and may require additional permits or plans.

The applicant’s attorney said he would seek to return to the council once the requested information is assembled.