The primary topic of the meeting was the application 42-2024-Z for a D variance, which was necessary because the business activities of Hassel Stein Inc. did not neatly fit into the permitted categories for the OG5 zone. The business, focused on diamond purchasing and selling, is set to occupy 5,500 square feet within a larger 240,000-square-foot building. The building, located at the corner of Mwan Road and Cliffwood Road, primarily hosts office use tenants. The applicant’s representative, Salvatore Alfery, emphasized the application’s urgency due to the expiration of their previous lease in Manhattan’s Diamond District.

Isaiah Herz Hassenfeld, the owner of Hassel Stein Inc., detailed the operations, clarifying that the company engages primarily in wholesale transactions, with minimal on-site client visits. The business employs 12 staff members in roles such as accounting, sales, and gemology, with most diamond processing occurring in Botswana. Deliveries are managed discreetly and securely, following guidelines from insurance provider Lloyds of London. Security measures, including 20 cameras and man traps, were designed to ensure safety without attracting undue attention.

James Higgins, a planner with extensive zoning experience, testified on behalf of the applicant, arguing that the proposed business use was less intensive than other permitted uses in the zone. He noted that the business would generate minimal traffic and align with broader market trends that have seen a decline in demand for traditional office space. Higgins cited a reexamination report suggesting a need to reevaluate office zone uses due to the rise of remote work. His testimony supported the idea that the diamond business would utilize the space while blending with existing tenants, which include insurance companies and law firms.

Concerns arose regarding the building’s maintenance, particularly the parking lot condition. A landlord representative, Efim Hassenfeld, confirmed that repairs were underway, with some areas completed and others scheduled post-winter. The building’s security infrastructure includes cameras throughout common areas to ensure tenant safety.

During the public portion, Mark Heck testified to clarify the nature of the diamond business, noting concerns over traffic on Cliffwood Avenue due to nearby developments. He reiterated that only professionals would visit the premises, limiting public traffic. He clarified a misunderstanding about the operations, ensuring that all visits are by appointment only, with no walk-ins allowed.

Mr. Dari, in agreement with the applicant’s planner, acknowledged the evolving nature of land use and the need to revisit the master plan. He expressed satisfaction with the applicant’s responses regarding site improvements and scheduling, noting no further concerns.