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Zoning board approves conversion of Western Ave. grooming shop to co‑working space with parking conditions
Summary
The Guilderland Zoning Board granted a special use permit to convert 1434 Western Ave. from a dog‑grooming gallery to a co‑working facility, issuing a SEQRA negative declaration and imposing parking conditions including one designated handicap space and a loading zone.
The Town of Guilderland Zoning Board of Appeals on Jan. 7 approved a special use permit to convert 1434 Western Ave., a former dog‑grooming gallery, into a co‑working facility, subject to conditions on parking and a licensing agreement for rear lot access.
Chairwoman Elizabeth Lott opened the application and said the board had concerns about whether people would have secure access to the rear parking lot. Kent Hansen, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said the project has a signed licensing agreement granting access to the rear of the building via the adjacent parcel at 1436 Western Ave. The applicant seeks the permit to change the building’s use from a grooming gallery to a co‑working space.
During the public hearing several residents raised accessibility and site‑plan concerns. Christine Duffy said there were “issues with the sidewalk and front parking relating to people with disabilities.” Ellen Manning said the application drawings did not show the sidewalk location, and Katrina Simeongene urged the board to fully evaluate potential obstructions to access. Jackie Coons requested a designated loading zone to ensure compliance with operational needs.
The board concluded the proposal was in compliance with the zoning code and voted 5–0 to issue a SEQRA negative declaration for the unlisted action. Before approving the special use permit, the board imposed conditions: designate parking space #4 as a handicap space and designate space #3 as a loading zone with appropriate signage, and require the licensing agreement with the adjacent parcel to guarantee rear lot access. The motion to grant the special use permit passed 5–0, with the motion made by Chairwoman Lott and seconded by Richard Villa.
The board recorded that the permit is contingent on the licensing agreement and the redesigned parking signage and markings. No appeal periods or effective dates were discussed during the meeting. The board moved on to other agenda items following the approval.
