Commission approves relocation of Cornett Metal Works to 1704 Gay Ave Rear with fire inspection condition

Findlay City’s Planning Commission on Jan. 8 approved a conditional‑use request to allow Greg Cornett to operate Cornett Metal Works at 1704 Gay Avenue, Rear, with the condition that the business receive a fire inspection before opening.

Staff described the unit as part of a multi‑tenant development, larger than the applicant’s previous site (3,300 sq. ft. vs. 2,600 sq. ft.). Staff initially raised a concern about a lack of screening on the west side of the site and about potential outdoor storage, but after reviewing the applicant’s lease language that prohibits trailers and external storage the staff recommendation was amended to remove the fence requirement and recommend approval with only the standard fire inspection condition.

Applicant Greg Cornett told commissioners the new building has higher ceilings and larger doors (15‑foot ceilings, 12‑ to 15‑foot doors) that allow indoor storage of dumpsters and equipment; he said he does not intend to store materials outside and agreed to a condition prohibiting outdoor storage if the commission requested it. Property owner Deborah (speaker 15) said leases prohibit tenants from leaving items outside and that she regularly monitors the property.

Fire prevention staff asked that the applicant secure a fire inspection before opening; engineering and planning staff noted driveway access and hard‑surface requirements if the gravel area is to be used as a formal access. Commissioners voted to approve CU‑02‑2026; the record shows the vote passed unanimously.

What’s next: Applicant must schedule a fire inspection and work with staff on any access or surface improvements required for tenant operations.