Development News for Warren, Ohio

Tire Storage Site Plan Postponed Pending Zoning Board of Appeals Approval

The planning commission considered a site plan for open storage of tires at 14731 8 Mile Road, Section 36, by B Tires, LLC. The petitioner, Bashar Hammo, explained that he operates a tire business and uses a semi-trailer for temporary storage of tires before they are picked up by a recycling company. He stated he has manifests for scrap tires and that his business has been operating for 15 years without complaints or violations. He expressed concern that removing the semi-trailer would hurt his business. The site is located at the northwest corner of 8 Mile Road and Eastwood Boulevard. The planning department recommended approval with standard conditions and specific requirements. These included revising site plans to prohibit open tire storage outside the building, creating landscaped setback areas with low shrubs, removing bollards, ensuring site maintenance (weed removal), potentially requiring a variance for parking spaces, shielding all lighting, widening the 8 Mile Road driveway, adding trees and shrubbery, constructing a trash enclosure, combining parcels, obtaining a building permit for a previously cut door opening, and variances for billboard sign setbacks, lot area, building setbacks, use variance for the truck storage, and parking spaces. A performance bond of $1,500 was recommended. The petitioner expressed difficulty with some requirements, particularly installing landscaping that might block the semi-trailer, which he considers essential for his business. He indicated he had received approval from 'Mr. Everett' for the trailer's placement and the current setup. The commission noted the numerous variances required and suggested the petitioner go before the Zoning Board of Appeals to seek these variances, proposing a postponement until this process is completed. The petitioner agreed to pursue this, aiming to obtain necessary approvals and paperwork from Mr. Everett. The item was ultimately postponed indefinitely until the petitioner obtains approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Outdoor Storage Site Plan Postponed Due to Code Violations

The commission addressed a site plan for expanded outdoor storage of forklifts. The planning department recommended postponement due to violations of a court order and ordinances, citing a 'junkyard' condition. Residents reported issues with rats, noise, and safety. The petitioner agreed to a postponement for site cleanup. The item was postponed indefinitely pending compliance.

Extension Granted for Groesbeck Highway Development Due to Variance and Plat Issues

A one-year extension was granted for a site plan involving a building addition, accessory building, and open vehicle storage at 21311 Groesbeck Highway. The petitioner cited delays in obtaining Zoning Board of Appeals variances and a complex plat amendment process as reasons for the request.

One-Year Extension Granted for Steel Plate Storage Site Plan

The planning commission heard a request for a one-year extension for a site plan initially approved on July 8, 2024, for open storage of steel plates at 4965 East Nine Mile Road, Section 29. The petitioner, Derek Kapelan / DJP Leasing LLC, represented by Karen Berti, requested the extension to July 8, 2027. Ms. Berti explained that work had been delayed due to necessary cement work: moving and widening a driveway and addressing a wall height requirement. The cement company indicated the existing wall was in such disrepair that it needed full replacement, increasing the scope of work. Finding contractors for poured concrete walls proved difficult, leading to further delays. The petitioner needed the extension to complete the required cement work and pass final inspections. The commission approved the one-year extension to July 8, 2027.