Local business seeks temporary permission to store POD units; council says zoning process required

Ken Ceramillo told the Canfield City Council he has an urgent business opportunity to host outside storage of portable storage units (PODs) on his West Main property and asked for permission to start on April 1 while zoning language is finalized. "I need about 10 days of preparation, and they would like to start on April 1," Ceramillo said.

Council members and the zoning inspector said the request raises novel zoning issues because the units would often be empty inventory rather than resident storage. The zoning inspector explained the normal legislative route: an ordinance must be introduced, go to planning for a public hearing and recommendation, then return to council; that process likely puts final action into May. "That may never happen," one council member said, noting the existing zoning rules.

Why it matters: The request highlights tension between economic opportunity and existing zoning rules meant to limit outdoor storage in certain districts. Council asked the owner to provide written specifications—unit sizes (8x8, 8x12, 8x16), estimated counts (about 100), required acreage (half to three-quarters of an acre), and transport methods—so staff can draft appropriate language.

Council directions and next steps: Staff said they will prepare proposed legislation and asked Ceramillo to submit documentation about sizes, transport, and operational plans. Multiple council members emphasized they cannot authorize a permanent change outside the formal ordinance process; one member said April 1 was "probably not a realistic date." Ceramillo said he understood but urged the council to be mindful of the time-sensitive business opportunity.

The council did not take an immediate formal vote on the request; instead staff will follow up with planning and a public hearing as required by the charter.