Committee recommends favorable action on Emporium Auto Body licenses at 367 Third Street

The Everett City Council Committee on Community and Business Development on March 11 recommended favorable action to the full council for two licenses for Emporium Auto Body Shop Incorporated at 367 Third Street: a mechanical repair license and a Class 2 motor vehicle dealer license.

Applicant Daniel Velez Arango, who said he has worked in the industry in Colombia and owned a dealership in Florida, addressed the committee with translator Bridget Zapata. "Since I came here from my country, it's the only thing that I've been doing ever since," Velez Arango said, describing his experience and intent to expand in Massachusetts. He told the committee he has occupied the 367 Third Street location for about a year and a half and now rents directly from the property owner.

Committee members confirmed department approvals have been received. A Ward 1 councilor told the applicant to see City Clerk Mr. Mangan to pick up the license after the full council approves it at the 7:00 p.m. meeting, and the clerk will issue the license on Wednesday once approvals are finalized. Committee members reminded the applicant to keep the property in decent condition given nearby residential development.

A roll call to recommend favorable action to the full council recorded votes in the affirmative from Councilor Matuszewski, Councilor DiPuro (DePiro in the transcript) and Councilor Rogers; the committee announced three affirmative votes and the recommendation was approved.