Shrewsbury commission recommends special-use permit for Grow Automotive expansion

The Shrewsbury Plan Commission on Sept. 25 recommended that the Board of Aldermen approve a special-use permit allowing Grow Automotive to expand its site with a showroom, offices and mechanical bays.

Commissioner Miller, speaking during the public hearing, said the application was for a special-use permit rather than a rezoning: “it's not a re-zone that Grow Automotive is after, it's a special use permit.” Grow Automotive representatives described plans to enlarge their facility and discussed preliminary logistics including access, sidewalks and stormwater coordination.

Commissioners raised site-development concerns tied to external agencies. The commission discussed Missouri Department of Transportation plans that could affect entrances and sidewalks and noted communications with the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District regarding utilities and stormwater. Commissioners said final approval should be contingent on any required coordination and compliance with city codes.

Commissioner Miller moved to recommend approval of the special-use permit with the condition that final plans comply with all Shrewsbury codes and the permit application process and that the recommendation be subject to the Board of Adjustment approving any needed variances. Commissioner McArthur seconded the motion; it passed by unanimous voice vote.

The commission’s recommendation is advisory: the Board of Aldermen must act on the permit and the Board of Adjustment must decide any variance requests before Grow Automotive can proceed with the proposed construction.

The Plan Commission next plans to continue other agenda items at its Oct. 30 meeting.