Hayward planning commission approves permit for Mannheim auto-storage yard at Industrial Parkway West

The Hayward Planning Commission voted to approve a conditional use permit enabling Mannheim to operate an outdoor automobile storage yard and related fleet support activities at 2348 Industrial Parkway West.

Senior planner Steve Kowalsski told commissioners the 6.7-acre site contains an 18,692-foot truck terminal and a separate roughly 4,000-foot maintenance garage and had been used for auction-related vehicle storage in the past. Copart moved operations offsite in early 2023, and because the prior conditional use had been inactive for more than six months, the proposal requires a new CUP. Staff recommended the commission find the project categorically exempt under CEQA Guidelines section 15301 and approve the permit subject to conditions addressing stormwater protection, on-site washing, leaking fluids and security.

Applicant Drew Hess, representing Lelayline (the property owner), said the company purchased and renovated the property in 2023 and plans no new construction for the proposed use. "We purchased this property in 2023 and went about renovating it and getting it ready," Hess said, adding that the use would retain a long-standing Hayward employer and create about 25 jobs. The applicant said the yard would operate roughly 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays with a single shift and expects to store between 600 and 700 vehicles on the site, receiving up to about 10 vehicle deliveries per day.

Greg Beck, general manager for Mannheim San Francisco Bay, answered operational questions, saying Mannheim conducts minor on-site work such as small body repairs, windshield replacement and tire installation but takes more extensive mechanical repairs offsite. On electric vehicles, Beck said, "now 20 to 30% of what we're taking in are electric vehicles," and that the operation will install EV charging infrastructure at the site.

Commissioners questioned timing, safety systems and stormwater protections. The applicant said both buildings have functioning fire sprinkler systems and that there are no underground storage tanks on the property. Addressing flood and runoff concerns, the applicant said he uses filters on drains and described a regular maintenance cycle; staff noted the city inspects required protections.

Only one member of the public spoke during the hearing. Miles Fraser, a Hayward resident who works for Mannheim, said he supported the project and cited the company’s local community involvement with organizations such as the Hayward Boys & Girls Club and the Alameda County Food Bank. "I'm excited Mannheim has the opportunity to expand in Hayward," Fraser said.

Commissioner Stevens moved to approve the permit (stated on the record as "approve PH26019"); Commissioner Hammond seconded. After brief remarks thanking staff and the applicants, the commission voted and the motion carried. The transcript does not record an individual roll-call tally on the record. The applicant told commissioners they intend to occupy the site once the appeal period expires, which they said would be about 10 days after the decision.

Following the vote the commission approved minutes for the prior meeting and heard several announcements, including BART open-house dates related to downtown transit-oriented development and a reminder about an Earth Day cleanup at Weeks Park. Director Lero was recognized in his final meeting with the commission. The meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.