The most time-consuming topic of the meeting involved USA Concession Enterprises LLC’s request for a use variance to allow retail operations alongside a non-conforming warehouse distribution in a CI-zoned area. The applicant’s representatives detailed the intention to keep the building’s footprint unchanged while repurposing the warehouse to include a retail element restricted to wholesale members. This proposal spurred a discussion about how the retail component would integrate with the existing warehouse operations and whether it might shift the business’s primary focus away from wholesale distribution.

Civil engineer Matt Seckler presented a traffic impact study to the board, emphasizing that the addition of retail operations would not alter the anticipated traffic conditions. The study, conducted using data from May 2025, projected manageable customer flow during peak periods. However, board members expressed concerns about the potential for increased traffic, particularly given the proximity to Restaurant Depot, a similar wholesale establishment.

Seckler assured the board that the planned modifications, including an “in only” entrance on Springfield Road and sufficient parking spaces, would mitigate traffic issues. He elaborated on the site’s layout, noting enhancements in parking and the strategic placement of loading docks to streamline deliveries without interfering with customer visits. Despite these assurances, the board requested further clarification on the interior layout and traffic management, pointing to the need for a comprehensive floor plan.

Mazag Fek, CEO of USA Concession Enterprises LLC, provided testimony on the business model, confirming that the new facility would not be open to the general public. Instead, it would serve businesses with wholesale memberships, allowing them to order online and pick up in person or opt for delivery. Fek explained that the operational hours would be Monday to Saturday, with an emphasis on online ordering as a continued primary mode of business interaction.

During the meeting, board members sought clarity on how the retail aspect would coexist with the warehouse function. Fek reiterated that the new space would allow for a retail experience tailored to business clients, which was not feasible at their current location. Board members expressed a need for clear controls to prevent the retail component from overshadowing the wholesale operations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the original business model.

The absence of architectural plans was noted, but the board considered the lack of planned renovations as a mitigating factor. Nevertheless, the board stressed the importance of a detailed breakdown of the floor plan to alleviate concerns related to traffic and public safety. The zoning officer emphasized that a clear delineation of operational areas would help address these issues, particularly concerning customer access to the warehouse and retail areas.

As the meeting progressed, the board agreed to adjourn the hearing, rescheduling it for January 14, 2026, to allow USA Concession Enterprises LLC time to prepare a more detailed floor plan and address outstanding questions. The board members expressed a commitment to ensuring public safety and traffic considerations were prioritized, recognizing the community’s interest in the proposed changes.