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Planning commission approves Hamstire auto‑service SUP for Saginaw Boulevard sites despite resident concerns about traffic
Summary
The commission approved an SUP for Hamstire to operate a tire/auto‑service business at 105 West Lemon and 213/215 North Saginaw Boulevard. Applicant Chris Wagner described limited scope services, planned demolition of one structure to create parking, and proposed on‑site traffic management; a nearby resident’s letter urged strict conditions on parking, staging and site upgrades.
The Saginaw Planning and Zoning Commission voted to approve a specific‑use permit for Hamstire to operate an auto‑service station at 105 West Lemon Street, 213 North Saginaw Boulevard and 215 North Saginaw Boulevard.
Staff explained the request and showed site plans and concept images. Applicant Chris Wagner said Hamstire’s scope focuses on retail tire sales, alignments, brakes and other light maintenance but not engine or transmission work; he said the 213 and 105 properties already contain usable bays, and the applicant would likely demolish the 215 building to create much‑needed parking and circulation. Wagner described plans for concrete parking, a dealership‑style flow with staff directing vehicles, and interior storage of parts with outdoor improvements intended to modernize the corridor frontage.
James Blaine, a Century 21 representative, spoke in support, citing the Wagner family’s track record of property improvements. The commission also read a letter from resident Dan Ditfirth opposing the SUP or urging strict enforceable conditions; his concerns included overflow parking on West Lemon, vehicle queuing, outdoor storage and visual impacts, and a recommendation that all parking, staging and storage be contained on‑site.
Commissioners discussed traffic flow and safety on the residential West Lemon approach and the Saginaw Boulevard corridor, urged careful attention to circulation and appearance, and noted that some design elements (for example, masonry) are subject to limitations unless proposed in the SUP; staff clarified the city can regulate some elements such as color but not all materials without specific proposal language. After discussion, a motion to approve the SUP as submitted was made, seconded and carried. The commission will forward the item to city council for final action and to consider any permit conditions.
