Boardman's Balancing Act: Regulating the Rise of Self-Storage and Car Washes

Boardman Township is grappling with the proliferation of self-storage facilities and car washes, which have raised concerns about their impact on the local economy and suburban environment. The township's planning and zoning director, Thomas J. Keiran, has spearheaded efforts to address these issues through zoning amendments aimed at striking a balance between commercial development and community well-being.

Preserving Boardman's Vibrant Future: Tackling the Challenges of Oversaturation

Reining in the Self-Storage Surge

Boardman Township has seen a significant increase in the number of self-storage facilities, with six currently in operation and more on the way. Keiran, the planning and zoning director, has raised concerns about the impact these facilities have on the local economy and land usage. Self-storage sites, he argues, often operate with minimal staffing and fail to generate substantial employment or sales tax revenue. Moreover, these facilities occupy valuable land that could be better utilized for industrial or commercial development.To address these issues, the township has enacted zoning amendments that aim to limit the proliferation of self-storage facilities. The new regulations include restrictions on the number of individual storage units per site, mandated operating hours, and a ban on certain activities within the facilities. Additionally, the amendments require self-storage sites to connect to municipal utilities and provide on-site management and security, addressing concerns about remote oversight and potential criminal activity.

Navigating the Car Wash Conundrum

Boardman Township has also grappled with the influx of car washes, with 19 currently in operation. While these businesses can provide a valuable service to the community, they also present their own set of challenges. Keiran has expressed concerns about the potential for noise pollution and traffic congestion, particularly when car washes are located in close proximity to residential areas.The zoning amendments address these concerns by limiting the number of car washes that can be established within the township, as well as imposing restrictions on the placement and design of these facilities. The new regulations require car washes to be situated at least half a mile apart and prohibit the placement of open bays facing adjacent residential properties. Additionally, the amendments include provisions to regulate the volume of music and other audible nuisances emanating from car washes, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with the surrounding neighborhoods.

Embracing Flexible, Sustainable Development

Keiran and the township's planning and zoning department recognize that the goal is not to eliminate commercial ventures such as self-storage and car washes, but to integrate them into a balanced and sustainable development plan. The concept of "flex spaces" has emerged as a potential solution, where these facilities are incorporated into mixed-use developments that also include office spaces, artisan studios, and light industrial manufacturing.These flex spaces are designed to promote environmental sustainability, with features such as retention ponds and bioswales to manage stormwater runoff, as well as thoughtful landscaping to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the community. By fostering a diverse mix of commercial activities and incorporating sustainable design elements, Boardman Township aims to strike a balance between economic growth and community well-being.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape: Boardman's Proactive Approach

Boardman Township's efforts to address the challenges posed by the proliferation of self-storage facilities and car washes reflect a proactive and forward-thinking approach to community planning. By enacting zoning amendments and promoting sustainable development strategies, the township is positioning itself to maintain a vibrant and balanced local economy while preserving the character and livability of its suburban environment.As the landscape of commercial development continues to evolve, Boardman Township's commitment to striking a delicate balance between economic growth and community well-being serves as a model for other municipalities grappling with similar challenges. Through its innovative solutions and collaborative approach, the township is poised to ensure that Boardman remains a thriving and desirable community for residents and businesses alike.