City planners: deny rezoning for junkyard

The planning commission’s recommendation will be sent to the Commerce City Council for action when it meets on Monday, July 11.

At the planning meeting Monday night, several area property owners spoke in opposition to Cowart’s request. Cowart was not present at the meeting.

Wayne Moncrief, pastor of the Commerce Church of God, said the plans would devalue the church property. Adjacent property owner Tommy Benton said he is also concerned about property values declining, as well as run-off onto his property from the junkyard. Chance Warren, another adjacent property owner, said he plans to develop his property and believes any interest he has in the site will “dry up” if a junkyard is located on Cowart’s property.

Before the vote was taken, Perry said, “I believe a junkyard and flea market would not be in the highest and best use of the property.”