In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the operations of a tenant at 2060 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, who has been accused of violating a cease and desist order related to unauthorized vehicle washing activities. The applicant, who has obtained DMV approval for their business, is reportedly renting a shared space but has faced complaints from a lower-level tenant, Bridal Power, about flooding caused by clogged sewer pipes attributed to the vehicle washing.
The Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) administrator confirmed that no approvals had been granted for vehicle washing at the site, and the property owner has expressed opposition to such activities. The property manager reported that a large delivery truck had blocked access to the road for several hours, further complicating the situation.
The applicant's initial request to allow car sales was denied due to concerns that it would lead to the entire property being used as a dealership. A cease and desist order was issued in April, which the applicant has allegedly ignored, continuing business activities that include vehicle washing and detailing, despite being instructed to cease all operations.
During the meeting, discussions highlighted the applicant's misrepresentation of their business activities, as they applied for a business occupancy under warehousing and storage, while evidence suggested ongoing vehicle sales and washing. The landlord's attorney emphasized that the lease does not permit vehicle washing and has caused significant damage to the tenant below, amounting to $13,000 in losses.
The commission expressed frustration over the applicant's disregard for regulations and the ongoing violations, noting that the situation has persisted for over a year. The landlord's attorney indicated a willingness to amend the lease to restrict activities to storage only, provided that the tenant complies with local regulations.
As the meeting concluded, the commission considered taking legal action to enforce the cease and desist order, emphasizing the need for compliance with zoning regulations and the importance of preventing further flooding incidents. The ongoing conflict between the tenant's operations and the landlord's restrictions remains unresolved, with potential implications for future business activities at the site.