Norwalk Planning Commission strikes down controversial car wash project
Norwalk planning commissioners listen to public comment at Wednesday’s meeting. The commission voted to reject a controversial car wash development. (Photo by Vincent Medina)
NORWALK - After many local residents voiced their disapproval, the Norwalk Planning Commission voted against a proposed automated car wash on Studebaker Road and Rosecrans Avenue during Wednesday’s meeting.
If the Red Mountain Group [RMG] earned the commission’s approval to build the SuperStar Carwash, the Norwalk True Value Hardware store, TNT Mexican Restaurant and Vic’s Barber Shop would be demolished and replaced with the automated facility.
The company has 10 days to appeal the decision to the city council.
During public comment residents argued that if the businesses were demolished, it would cost the employees their jobs.
Norwalk La Mirada Unified School District board member Dr. Robert Cancio argued that the car wash would have little return on investment.
“The residents of Norwalk support small businesses so for the planning commission I ask, do right for Norwalk,” Cancio said. “When you have a five to one ratio of businesses or one when you’re offering clear and concise multiple job opportunities for residents here, what is your return on investment?”
A majority of residents who spoke were also concerned over traffic, pollution and safety. The proposed development is directly behind a residential neighborhood, and is three blocks away from Corvallis Middle School and Norwalk High School.
Planning Commissioner Luis Navas shared concern over his children’s safety, as he lives in the surrounding area.
“I can see just from the design of the car wash that you make a u-turn across the street. I’m also looking at the hours of operation because it’s operating in the morning,” Navas said. “My kids are going to go to Norwalk High. And I see the kids walk to school in the morning through that crosswalk, and I don’t want cars there. Certainly not while there are kids who go to school.”
RMG director of development John Clay tried to dismiss the community’s concerns, saying their issue was with the land use.
“I just want to point out the overwhelming objections are the land use. This isn’t the forum for that,” Clay said. “All of the sentiment expressed here needs to go to a general plan update meeting for the land use.”
He did not wish to comment further after the council voted (four to one) against approving the car wash.
Gabriel Garcia was the only commissioner to vote yes on the project.