Council approves first reading for G Town Auto Body special-use permit; members debate double-reading request

The Belton City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to grant a one-year special-use permit for G Town Auto Body at 1016 North Scott Ave, allowing vehicle and equipment sales as a minor accessory use while the business continues repair operations.

Planning staff told council the applicant has operated vehicle repair at the site for several years and seeks to offer a limited number of vehicles for sale as an accessory component. The proposal includes construction of a 450-square-foot two-bay workshop and requests a setback reduction from 10 feet to 5 feet to preserve drive-aisle width. Staff recommended approval of a one-year special-use permit with six conditions; staff said that if required improvements are completed within the year, the permit could be made permanent without repeating the special-use process.

Council members questioned whether the applicant could turn sales into a primary business; planning staff said site constraints, limited visibility from the street and the small size of the site would make large-scale sales impractical and that businesses seeking to expand sales would likely locate elsewhere. Staff also described required incremental improvements including paving, enclosing dumpsters and restriping parking.

A council member requested a double reading to expedite final approval because the tenant faces time pressures with their current space; other members expressed concern, saying multiple readings allow public input and transparency. The motion for a double reading was made and seconded but failed on a show-of-hands/roll-call count in the meeting. The first reading of the ordinance proceeded and passed; staff will perform inspections and enforce the permit conditions.

The permit as described limits vehicle sales to a minor, accessory role and ties permanent approval to completion of listed improvements and successful certification by staff.