In a public meeting held on Tuesday at BWG’s council meeting, an application for a zoning by-law amendment was filed by Matcon Developments, to permit an Enterprise Car Rental franchise in Units 1 & 2 in the plaza at 170 Artesian Industrial Parkway.
The proposed amendment would change the zoning from a “General Employment Exception 13 (M1*13)” to a “General Employment Exception 14 (M1*14) Zone.” The exception M1*14 zone would add “Motor Vehicle Sales, Leasing and/or Rental Establishment” to the list of permitted uses for the subject site.
There were no comments from the public regarding the application, but the Accessibility Advisory Committee did note their concern over available parking spaces.
The 0.442 hectare property consists of a building with several units, surrounded by a parking lot and access route. The report from Town staff noted that at present, there are no handicapped accessible parking spots designated. The report further suggested that the rezoning would trigger a need for three accessible spots.
Scott Mills, with Enterprise was present at the meeting, along with Mario Leonardi from Edward Makauskas Architect Inc., representing the owners of the business, Joe and Stan Matys.
Mills noted the company’s desire to expand into the Bradford market.
“We would love to set up a location and be part of the community here,” he said. “We are pretty excited at the opportunity.”
Mayor Rob Keffer noted that this type of business is something the town needs.
Deputy Mayor James Leduc apologized to Mills and Leonardi on behalf of council for putting the Matys brothers through the exercise, suggesting that it was a minor change, that shouldn't require a Zoning By-law amendment.
“I want to apologize on behalf of council for putting you through this exercise. It doesn't make sense,” Leduc said.
Coun. Peter Dykie agreed, “It’s sad to see so much effort goes into a minor adjustment like this.”
Mayor Keffer confirmed that the zoning by-laws will be checked to make sure they are “in line.”
“We look forward to our zoning by law being updated,” he said.
Council received the report and will be reviewed by staff a decision will be made at a later date.
