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Jose Laboy seeks variance to park commercial trucks near homes; neighbors urge caution
Summary
Jose Laboy asked the Zoning Board of Appeals for a variance to allow truck and RV parking inside the 200-foot residential setback at 1305 Oberlin Avenue; neighbors and Ward 2 councilwoman opposed the request, and the board voted to hold the application so the applicant can provide clearer plans and consider a reduced setback.
Jose Laboy, representing Industrial Storages and Parking LLC, told the Zoning Board of Appeals he wants to use paved, fenced areas at 1305 Oberlin Avenue to store and stage semi‑trailers, commercial and recreational vehicles and to operate a limited lumber processing area during daytime hours. Laboy said the operation would employ downward‑facing lighting, designated parking zones, controlled access and ongoing monitoring to limit noise and visual impact.
Ward 2 Councilwoman Victoria Kenton said she had canvassed nearby residents and that "not 1 of them is in favor of this," citing worries about truck noise, fumes, long periods of idling and the impact of industrial activity so close to homes. Resident Catherine Thomas told the board the milling and wood‑handling operations have produced smoke that affects a family member on oxygen: "My husband's on oxygen...he can't even go outside." Several residents also said trucks were already parking on the site in apparent noncompliance with the setback.
Planning staff told the board the staff report and neighbor correspondence raised concerns about whether the variance standards are met and that measurements of the 200‑foot setback should be confirmed; a staff member suggested a 100‑foot compromise as a possibility while also recommending clearer striping, signage and a formal site plan. Laboy said he had collected signatures from abutting neighbors and disputed some complaints, and told the board, "I will definitely, you know, go with the 100 feet if that would help us." He also said the trucks that move daily are currently parked to meet the 200‑foot separation, while storage trucks are located elsewhere on the property.
After extended public comment and board questions about enforceability, site drawings and past uses, a board member moved to hold the application in abeyance to allow the applicant to provide clearer drawings, confirm setback measurement, and work with staff on enforceable conditions; the motion carried by voice vote. The board did not grant the variance at this meeting.
