Council adopts readings for zoning moratorium on new used-auto lots and auto washes; approves preexisting MGM Autos license

The Lincoln Park City Council voted to give first and second reading by title to an ordinance that would install a zoning moratorium on new used vehicle outdoor sales lots and on automobile and other vehicle wash establishments.

Staff read findings adopted from recent planning commission discussion, which say clusters of used-auto dealers can create economic-development challenges and that new vehicle-wash operations have produced nuisance issues such as unpermitted lighting, signage and queuing. The planning commission had recommended the moratorium with a condition that it not prohibit lawful expansions of existing used-vehicle outdoor sales lots; the council’s ordinance text includes that limitation.

Council members said they expect ordinance officers to monitor current dealerships and ensure businesses operate within rules. During debate members noted similar moratoriums used elsewhere in Oakland County and discussed the six‑month review period the ordinance establishes. The ordinance readings were approved by roll call.

Separately, the council approved a Class B used-vehicle dealer license for MGM Autos LLC at 533 Southfield Road. Staff told council the application was filed and materially complete before the moratorium discussion began, and the applicant had obtained a certificate of occupancy, insurance and paid fees, so the license was approved. One council member recorded a no vote on that license approval; other members voted in favor. Several council members used the discussion to urge more active code enforcement to prevent blight and address outdoor storage of parts.

What’s next: The moratorium ordinance will proceed according to ordinance rules (review period noted in the text) and staff will follow up on enforcement and monitoring of existing dealers.