Commission recommends zoning change to let Scott’s Customs continue indoor classic-car restorations

The Elgin Planning and Zoning Commission on April 6 unanimously recommended approval of petition 06-26, a text amendment to the Arterial Road Corridor (ARC) overlay that would allow motor-vehicle repair uses limited to the restoration of classic and antique vehicles in specified circumstances.

Staff explained the change is intended to distinguish restoration shops—which typically service fewer vehicles, keep vehicles indoors and operate differently from general repair shops—from general motor-vehicle repair uses currently restricted in much of the ARC. The amendment would allow such shops where the work is exclusively for classic or antique vehicles (those more than 25 years old), require that vehicles undergoing restoration and vehicles for sale be kept inside at all times, require repair work to occur indoors with garage doors generally closed, and prohibit outdoor storage of inoperable or partially disassembled vehicles, parts or equipment.

Scott Beaver, the proposed operator, told the commission he began restoring vehicles in his employer’s shop about 16 years ago and later expanded to outside work five or six years ago. "I started with Reliance Tool doing this work about 16 years ago," Beaver said, explaining the business evolved from a hobby to a commercial operation.

Staff recommended approval and said the restriction to classic/antique vehicles would limit potential impacts along commercial corridors. Commissioners raised no objections during questioning, and the commission moved and seconded a recommendation to city council; the roll call vote was 5-0 in favor.

The amendment proceeds to City Council for final action.