Padilla Urges Limit on New Auto-Related Firms

A glut of used-car dealerships and auto repair shops in the northeast San Fernando Valley is creating a visual and economic blight in the area, said City Council President Alex Padilla, who is proposing a limit on new businesses.

Padilla, who represents the northeast Valley, has proposed a one-year ban on issuing permits for new automotive-related businesses in some areas unless there is a project-review process that allows input from the public.

Padilla’s ordinance would target Van Nuys Boulevard from north of Parthenia Street to the Foothill Freeway, and San Fernando Road between Osborne and Paxton streets in Pacoima.

“One of the greatest contributors of visual and economic blight in the northeast San Fernando Valley is the increase in the number of used-auto dealerships and automotive repair facilities,” Padilla said. “These facilities are often placed anywhere without regard to design standards, architectural appearance or proximity to homes and schools.”

The council Wednesday approved a motion by Padilla asking the city Planning Department to draft the ordinance and prepare permanent design standards and development guidelines to better regulate automotive businesses.

Not everyone believes there is a problem. Armando Mendoza, who owns a 20-year-old auto repair shop on San Fernando Road outside the targeted area, said he does not believe the city should limit new businesses moving in.

“It makes no sense,” he said. “Things aren’t that bad.”

Padilla said he is is concerned about new businesses coming in without regard to aesthetic standards. Many used-car dealerships are set up by the addition of asphalt and lights, without any thought as to how they look, he said.

Because it is sometimes easier to open a used-car lot, other types of commercial businesses needed by the area are pushed out, Padilla said.