Proposed use not allowed
SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Planning Board May 12 denied an application for a self-storage business at 771 College Highway.
Board Chair Michael Doherty said Town Counsel advised the board that it was not a proper use in the BR-zone.
Applicant Rob Tirrell attended the zoom meeting and was given the opportunity to withdraw the application without prejudice or have it denied.
Tirrell said “it might be easier to deny it for the future” so that it was clear this was not an allowed use in that zone.
Board members agreed Tirrell’s application was well done.
“Denying this is based on legal opinion,” said board member David Spina, “otherwise, this application had a lot of merit.”
Robert Levesque of R. Levesque Associates was hired by Tirrell for the design of the proposed business. Levesque agreed a denial was the best option and said they would be back at the drawing board.
“We’re going to work with Mr. Tirrell on other ideas,” said Levesque. “He wants to have a family-based business in Southwick.”
Doherty said during the meeting that he was advised by counsel verbally and a letter outlining the allowed use would be sent in the next few days.
Tirrell thanked the board for its cooperation, especially Doherty, as well as Levesque.
“I appreciate all the work you did,” he said.
