Tucker, GA — Tucker Zoning Board of Appeals met on Dec. 21, voting on changes proposed by two industrial businesses.

Steel Mart, located at 2018 Steel Drive, was approved for a setback variance to renovate and expand a one-story metal building for office space and warehouse storage. The property was purchased in October 2021.

The renovation will allow Steel Mart, a company that processes and supplies steel, to expand production operations, said Rob MacPherson, who spoke on behalf of the applicant.

Staff recommended the variance be approved, and board members voted unanimously to allow it. Board chair Keith Easterling said he supported the variance because it is “consistent with what’s on the street and fits with character of the area.”

Empire Electronics Corporation, located at 1629 Litton Drive, requested two variances outdoor storage of tires (V-21-0016) and to move service bays (V-21-0017) to face Lewis Road, making better use of the lot.

Den Webb, an attorney representing Empire Electronics, said the company will work with city staff on a solution for screening a tire storage container which is picked up and replaced weekly.

City staff recommended denial of V-21-0116 and approval of V-21-0017.

Nearby business owners sent letters in support of Empire Electronics, but during the public hearing, Tucker Summit CID opposed the changes. Caleb Racicot, speaking on behalf of the Tucker Summit CID board, said the CID has concerns over the aesthetic and maintenance of the property, and the precedent the ZBA would set by allowing loading docks to face Lewis Road.

ZBA board members voted to deny V-21-0016 and to approve V-21-0017 with conditions on curb cuts and landscaping.

The next ZBA meeting will be held on Feb. 1.

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