Zoning Board Approves Stewart’s Variance Request
Site Drawing
Stewart’s Representaive Chuck Marshall
Zoning Board of Appeals
April 18, 2019 Peru – Last night the Peru Zoning Board of Appeals approved Stewart’s Shops request for a variance to construct a new 3,856 square ft. convenience store. Peru’s Zoning law restricts convenience stores in the hamlet to 2,500 sq. ft.; however, a variance can be granted if the benefit to the community prevails over adverse impacts. Board members James Falvo, James Bosley, Tom Fusco and Sean Lukas voted yes. Steve LaBounty voted no saying the building was too large. Stewart’s still has to present its plans to the Planning Board which will consider such matters as fencing, greenery, lighting and noise mitigation.
Several residents attended last night’s meeting. Michael Blaine said, “I think it’s a fantastic project. We know who Stewart’s is. There are no surprises here. It will be a more safe intersection. It’s a win, win for the area.”
Several issues that will undoubtedly come before the Planning Board were discussed. If Stewart’s acquires the property to the north where a few mobile homes are currently located, John and Jean Manusco said their home will be only 50 inches from Stewart’s property line. They are concerned about privacy and noise. Stewart’s representative Chuck Marshall tried to allay their fears saying, “We’re a big company, but we try to make accommodations.” Marshall said constructing a 4- foot fence between the shop and their property would not be a problem. He will also consider additional greenery. He gave his phone number to the Manuscos so that they could call him to discuss their concerns.
Denise Laduke, who lives directly behind Stewart’s, is concerned about noise during the early morning hours, especially since the new store would be closer to her property. She said, “In the summer when your windows are open you can hear the loud clanging from garbage trucks at 4 or 5 a.m.” Marshall said constructing a 6-foot high fence to mitigate noise would not be a problem.
Posted: April 18th, 2019 under Business News, Peru News, Zoning Board News.