Lawrence Sachs, representing the applicant, presented a comprehensive site plan subdivision. This session marked the fourth or fifth discussion on the proposed parking system, highlighting the board’s request for detailed information on the system’s design, safety features, and operational protocols. Sachs introduced two witnesses, Mr. Sean Fitch from Klous Multi Parking and Mr. Pinglu from Metropolis Parking, who elaborated on the technical and operational aspects of the parking system.

Fitch’s testimony included a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the proposed two-high stacker system, which operates without a pit using a hydraulic lifting cylinder. He emphasized the system’s safety features, including an emergency stop button and lockouts that activate every two inches during descent. The system is designed for operation by trained valet personnel. The materials used in construction are hot-dipped galvanized for durability, and the platform includes drainage systems to manage liquids, protecting vehicles below from potential damage. Fitch assured that in case of a power outage, the hydraulic lifts could be manually lowered, minimizing downtime.

Further discussions revealed that the garage would accommodate a total of 114 parking spaces using the stacking system, with each unit capable of holding vehicles up to 6,000 pounds. The board delved into the technical specifications, such as electrical requirements, safety records, and the necessity of valet services. Concerns about the operational logistics, particularly the time required to retrieve vehicles from the system, were prominent. Estimates suggested that it could take approximately two minutes and fifteen seconds to retrieve a vehicle from the top of the stack.

Mr. Lou from Metropolis Technologies highlighted the company’s innovations, including the use of AI and machine learning to enhance customer experiences. The valet attendants would use iPads or iPhones to facilitate interactions, allowing seamless vehicle retrieval without the need for tickets. The system also offers a feature akin to a “Pizza Tracker,” providing customers with real-time updates on their vehicle status.

However, concerns were raised about the feasibility of maintaining such staffing levels given labor market challenges. The discussion also touched on the need for effective communication with patrons regarding vehicle retrieval times and the sequential nature of the valet operation.

Public comments reflected skepticism about the proposed parking plan’s adequacy, particularly given the residential nature of the area and the size of the proposed structure. One attendee compared the structure to a supermarket, questioning the safety and practicality of such a dense facility. There were also concerns about the impact on traffic flow on Ernston Road, especially considering school buses and other local traffic.

The board sought to address these concerns by reaffirming the facility’s adherence to safety and building codes. However, public doubts persisted, particularly regarding the reliability of the presented testimony and the evolving nature of the parking arrangements. The need for a comprehensive understanding of the facility’s operational logistics was underscored, with calls for transparency and detailed information to ensure community confidence.

The dialogue included specifics about the accommodation of larger vehicles, with assurances that while certain full-size SUVs and trucks would not fit in the stacked system, they could be parked in surface spaces. The operational procedures for managing potential technical issues with the parking system were also discussed, emphasizing the importance of standard operating procedures and regular inspections to ensure safety and functionality.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board set expectations for the next session, including a drawing to illustrate traffic flow and queuing areas. The next meeting was scheduled for October 16th, where further public input would be sought, and final witnesses would present additional insights into the proposed parking system. The session concluded with motions to open and close public comments and an adjournment.