ZBA allows large open truck storage on gravel at 6500 E. 14 Mile over environmental concerns

The Warren City Zoning Board of Appeals approved a request Sept. 23 allowing large-scale open storage of trucks and trailers at the property commonly described as 6500 East 14 Mile Road and permitting gravel surfacing for the storage area.

Brena Quinn, representing the petitioner, said the site — a former retail property subdivided for multiple tenants — historically used gravel and that gravel is easier for the owner to refurbish than pavement. When asked how many trucks the plan could accommodate, the petitioner pointed to the site plan capacity: "It's 173 trucks," a representative confirmed. Planning staff had granted site plan approval with conditions on May 11, 2026 and reported no issues that would affect the general public if conditions are met.

Several board members raised environmental and operational concerns about open storage on gravel. "I also have a problem with vehicles being stored on gravel, especially leaky trucks," said Mr. Clif, citing nearby watercourses including Red Run and Beaver Creek as possible receptors for runoff. Other members countered that the gravel lot has existed for decades and that paving to modern standards would be cost‑prohibitive for the owner. Suggestions discussed included limiting the number of trucks parked at any one time and restricting storage to truck and trailer parking only.

Mr. Green moved to approve the variances and the motion passed on a roll-call vote of 8–1, with Mr. Clif casting the lone no vote. The approval allows the owner to operate the open truck storage under the site plan conditions; board members noted that city and state regulatory agencies remain responsible for environmental inspections and enforcement.