Video: Zoning to Allow Car Lot Gets First Reading

After months of working with the owner and town staff, council voted 6-1 to approve the first reading of rezoning two adjoining lots on West Richardson Avenue to B-2 (Business Neighborhood Center) during Wednesday's regular meeting of council.

Owner Gary Pollard, who requested the 821 and 819 be rezoned from their current R-5 (Mixed Residential) status, wants the change so he can have a business there.

According to Councilman Bill McIntosh, the lots have never been used for a residential purpose under their current zoning.

In June, when Pollard's request first came before the planning board meeting, he said he planned to sell used cars, but with no more than eight cars on the lot. He had originally requested a B-3 rezoning just for one of the lots.

However, after discussing the rezone with town staff since then, he included both lots. According to council, B-3 is less restrictive than B-2, which would still allow for Pollard's intended use.

During the public comments before council voted on first reading, two West Richardson Avenue residents addressed council — urging the members not to vote for the measure. They cited public safety concerns and continued dilapidation of the area.

Only Councilwoman Kima Garten-Schmidt opposed the reading for both rezone requests on the lots.

A second and final reading is needed to complete the rezoning process.