Livonia planning commission backs recommendation to allow seasonal outdoor displays for Great Lakes Pawn

The Livonia Planning Commission voted to recommend that the City Council approve a waiver allowing Great Lakes Pawn, at 27675 Grand River Avenue, to display seasonal merchandise outside its storefront and in a rear parking-lot area.

Planner Jacob Uhasi summarized the request, saying the site — about 0.25 acres in a C-2 district — has evidence of outdoor displays dating back to 2016 but that section 6.45 of the city zoning ordinance currently prohibits outdoor sales, storage or display of merchandise. Several city departments reviewed the petition and offered technical conditions: engineering noted permitting and utility-submittal requirements; inspection called for restriping and a dumpster enclosure; police asked that sidewalks and sightlines remain clear; and the fire marshal said displays must not obscure the address, windows or entrances.

Owner Randy Sokin told commissioners the displays run only during business hours, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., are brought inside at close of business and do not remove parking spaces. "We've always complied with city inspections, police departments, fire marshals," Sokin said. He asked for reapproval because the displays increase foot traffic and help sales.

Commissioner Droz moved to approve the waiver with conditions that limit display hours to 9 a.m.–6 p.m., require removal of merchandise each day, restrict display to areas shown on the site plan, prevent encroachment into parking, drive aisles or right-of-way, and require compliance with engineering, building and fire department recommendations. The motion, supported by Commissioner Long, passed by roll call; the commission will forward the recommendation to city council.

The commission’s action is a recommendation only; city council will hold its own public hearing before issuing final approval.