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chose to not stand in the way of it, but that it was not suggested that the zoning code was being <br />waived. There was some discussion surrounding the current zoning certificate, which was <br />explained to the board was invalid, and that was in a letter from the building commissioner. <br />Closing arguments took place staring with Mr. O'Malley. He explained the core issue in the case <br />was the zoning code and the provisions regarding permitted uses, conditional uses, and similar <br />uses. The city's position is that the establishment did not comply with the necessary procedures <br />to obtain a certificate of zoning occupancy and that the use of the premises did not fall with the <br />permitted or conditional categories. The city contended that until the necessary application was <br />filed and a certificate issued, the use could not be considered permitted. He asked for the board <br />to deny the appeal. <br />Mr. Khawam expressed the importance of upholding property rights and ensuring fair and <br />consistent application of the zoning code. He explained that the building commissioner's <br />decisions and actions were inconsistent and that his client had operated lawfully and should be <br />allowed to continue to do so. He also expressed concern that should the board deny the appeal is <br />wouldn't have only been unjust to his client but also would have set a precedent that may impact <br />other business owners. <br />Mr. Mackey made a motion to close the public meeting; seconded by Ms. Patton. <br />Board members entered into their discussion. They asked Mr. O'Shae on how they should <br />proceed and specify what exactly were they to determine and vote on. Mr. O' Shae gave them the <br />three items to discuss, were: 1. Was the Kava operation the same use as the Best Damn Tacos, if <br />the answer is no, 2. Was this new use a listed permitted use or conditional use, if that is no, 3. <br />Were you able to make an argument that it is a similar use to a permitted use. He told them to <br />look at exhibit 1 d, the letter from April 5t', and exhibit 2 the letter from Dorenkott to Kovatch <br />Group. He also explained that if the board agreed with the applicant they would sustain the <br />appeal, if they agree with the city's decision they would deny the appeal. Board members <br />discussed the newness of the type of beverage and public consumption, and it was brought up <br />about the city having laws and processes that should have been abided by. Mr. Papotto and Mr. <br />Mackey both agreed that this use was not the same. Mr. Mackey proceeded to say there was <br />nothing in the code that showed it was permitted, conditional, or similar use whatsoever. He <br />stated that it simply was not part of the code in every reading he had seen. Ms. Patton shared that <br />it was not regulated, but was not illegal, it was simply new. Mr. Papotto shared how he perceived <br />the permitted uses and conditional uses and was unable to say that the new use was permitted or <br />conditional. Mr. Mackey felt that the city met the expectation of resolving something that was <br />undefined in the city code. Ms. Patton felt that the permitted use for this type of business was not <br />clear in the code. Mr. Papotto felt the area was too gray. Mr. Kovach agreed with other members <br />on all points. Mr. Papotto requested, proposed findings of facts and conclusions of law. <br />Appeal was denied:4-0 <br />Mr. Mackey motioned to excuse Mr. Rahm, seconded by Mr. Kovach; all were in favor. <br />ADJOURNMENT <br />