A zoning change on Fourth Street will make way for a new electronics resale store in Salem.
Monday night Salem City Council approved on first reading the request from owners of the future business they are naming “Cash Gekko” planned for the corner of Fourth and Spring streets, across from Lowe’s.
The request was to rezone the .3 acre from Light Manufacturing to Highway Business District. Kenton N. Bohn and James H. Stewart and property owner Mechanical Services & Installation asked for the rezoning.
Bohn was at the meeting to answer questions, but did not speak. Afterward, he said he and Stewart plan to purchase and resell such items as used electronics, games, smartphones and similar articles. He anticipates much of the business would be Internet sales, he said, and warehousing of items for resale. The property has a vacant office in front and warehouse storage in back. When he appeared before the Salem Planning Commission, which subsequently recommended approval, Illinois resident Stewart told commissioners people can bring their items to trade or sell.
The two also have a similar store in Roanoke which is a pawn shop. The Salem location would not be a pawn shop, Assistant City Manager Jay Taliaferro assured council. Stewart told Planning Commission members the store would be open six days a week and closed on Sundays. “We’re looking forward to coming here,” Bohn added. He said they expect to open by the first of 2019. Vice Mayor Jane Johnson said, “Thank you for moving your business to Salem.” Approved an $8,193 erosion and sedimentation bond for Mechanical Development Co. to regrade the slope and do landscaping in front of the business at 303 Apperson Dr. Chuck VanAllman told Councilmembers the industry does not plan to expand the building, but instead make a more gradual slope and expand the capacity of the creek a little bit.
Approved a $15,383 erosion and sedimentation bond for Starbucks, which is moving to the old BB&T building in front of Lakeside Shopping Center, VanAllman said. Mainly landscaping is planned, VanAllman said. Interviewed in closed session before the council meeting but took no action on choosing candidates for Salem School Board. Those interviewed were current members Dr. Michael Chiglinsky, Dr. Nancy Bradley, and first-time applicant Northcross teacher Joshua Kier. Appointments will be announced later, Mayor Randy Foley said.
