City mulls action on sign site

By Kipp Hanley

Published: May 1, 2008

The inaction of a local property owner to take care of zoning and building issues could lead to legal action by the city of Manassas.

City attorney Robert Bendall stated during Monday's city council meeting that the city plans to send one more letter to 9500 Liberty St. co-owner Gaudencio Fernandez, warning him to address trash problems and to apply for a building permit. The deadline for addressing those issues will likely be seven to 14 days, Bendall said.

That letter is currently being reviewed by the attorney's office, said city building official Brian Smith.

Several months ago, modifications were made to stabilize what's left of Fernandez's former home, on which several controversial signs have been placed. This action by the owner requires a building permit, according to city code. Fernandez has been promising to apply for the permit since January, said community development director Elizabeth Via.

In January, Fernandez came to council with a design for a commercial space on what is currently a residentially-zoned area. Last month, Fernandez stated publicly that he was planning to apply for a special use permit so he could eventually construct a larger sign that would serve as a community gathering place. However,  he has yet to do so as of Wednesday, said zoning administrator Lorene Payne.

Via said Fernandez must address the zoning and building issues before a special use permit is awarded for this purpose. A public hearing would also be necessary before the issuance of a special use permit.

Residents of the neighborhood have publicly expressed opposition to any change in zoning to the property.

Staff writer Kipp Hanley can be reached at 703-369-5738 or .