Even with the most repugnant provision of a zoning change removed, opponents are not happy. But a City Council committee has approved the measure anyway.
Originally, the owner of the land sought to build a slaughterhouse adjacent to single-family homes. After much opposition, that provision was removed.
But two ordinances allowing a change in a zoning classification would allow the owner of the land at Beach Boulevard and Cortez Road to expand his business.
One speaker at the Land Use and Zoning Committee meeting Tuesday called it a “classic case of encroachment” of business into a residential area. Another said it would allow the removal of trees that serve as a buffer between the commercial and residential areas.
There are wetlands on the property but the Planning Department, often a stanch defender of wetlands, blew them off in this case saying they weren’t important.
Ordinarily, this legislation would not have a chance. Great deference normally is given by members to the councilman representing the area affected, and to the council president. In this case Council President Keven Carrico is both, and he is opposed.
However, some influential lobbyists are pushing the measure, so the usual rules may not hold.
Opponents said another attempt to encroach on the residences at that location took place in 2016 but the council voted that proposal down.
Apna Bazar, the rezoning applicant, wants to expand, adding to a grocery other businesses including a restaurant and a warehouse.
The applicant’s argument essentially is that there is a lot of commercial activity in the neighborhood and a bit more will not hurt anyone.
This photo shows the land in question:
