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Local auto shop owner seeks zoning help; resident raises water leak and missing sign concerns
Summary
During public comment, Alexander Rosenfeld of M and G Automotive asked the council for help navigating zoning after being told by zoning staff he could not carry out planned sales and repairs; Harriet Ship reported a six-week water leak near her property and a missing fire-lane sign at a former McDonald's.
Alexander Rosenfeld, owner of M and G Automotive, told the Forest Park City Council he has relocated his business to Forest Park after operating in nearby Mason and has invested roughly $100,000 renovating his new building.
Rosenfeld said he obtained required permits and a sales license but was told recently by the zoning department that some aspects of his planned sales and repairs were not allowed under current zoning. "My name is Alexander Rosenfeld. I'm here on behalf of my company, M and G Automotive," he said, explaining his background and asking the council for help navigating the zoning process.
Council members and the mayor told Rosenfeld the first step is to work with the planning commission and offered to connect him with Chris Anderson to set up a meeting and clarify whether a variance or other action is needed. Rosenfeld said he would appreciate staff assistance in arranging that meeting.
Another resident, Harriet Ship, addressed infrastructure and safety concerns near her home. Ship said she had been dealing with worsening water at her property for about six weeks and that the utility company had identified a break and planned repairs for Wednesday. "The water started getting worse because it kept going across my property... it's been going up for 6 weeks," she said.
Ship also reported that a fire-lane sign at the former McDonald's location had been removed, allowing vehicles to park in the fire lane and creating access difficulties. She said she had filed a report with property maintenance but wanted the council to be aware and asked who is responsible for pavement markings near stop signs.
Council member Adams responded to the two public commenters by urging staff to provide residents time-bound follow-ups so people know when to expect an update or repair; Adams said that providing a target date for a response would give residents assurance.
City staff agreed to connect Rosenfeld with planning staff and to follow up on the public-works and signage issues.
