Permit Approved for P’ville Auto Shop to Sell Used Cars

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The village board unanimously passed a resolution Dec. 17 granting Laduca Auto Service on Depew Street a special permit that would allow the business to sell used automobiles on its property. In conjunction with a site plan approval by the village’s planning commission, the more than two-year process was finally completed with all parties involved walking away satisfied.

“There are a lot of things that are going to benefit us,” owner Vincent Laduca said. “I’m happy it’s over, but I am also happy we are making these changes on the property.”

Originally, Laduca petitioned the village board for a zoning text amendment. The auto shop had received zoning violations from the building department for selling used cars on the property.

Although the village did not grant a text amendment, they were willing to give Laduca a special permit use that expires and must be renewed every two years. In order to obtain the permit, Laduca has to make efforts to clean up the property and provide more of a buffer between the shop and the residences along Depew Street.

That buffer includes new curbing surrounding the property that the village paid for and landscaping at the entrance to the property, which is Laduca’s responsibility. Laduca had to address various issues, particularly doing a better job at maintaining the property, said Village Administrator Patricia Dwyer.

“This was something that (the neighbors) were really clear when they came in early on—they were really impressed with his operation,” Dwyer said. “They know he’s doing the best with what he gets to work with there, but they don’t like to look at.”

With Laduca receiving approval, he said the auto shop will start selling used cars within a couple of months. He estimates between 15 and 25 vehicles will be stored on-site.

Laduca added that he hopes to eventually apply for a permanent change, but Dwyer said this is likely a case where he will have to return every two years to continue selling the cars.

“Right now I just want to get it going, prove to the (village) that Pleasantville can have a successful small used car business,” Laduca said, “and not change the image or affect the small town feel.”