In a bid to return to its roots and accommodate its growing needs, an established electrical contracting firm is making strategic moves. Lapinski Electrical Contractors, which previously operated within the city, has acquired a roughly 2-acre parcel of land from the American Legion Post 275, located at 41 Robbins Road. This significant development is driven by the company’s expansion requirements, as it has outgrown its existing Granby location.
However, there is a zoning challenge that needs to be addressed. The newly acquired land falls under the Business A zoning category, which explicitly prohibits the establishment of construction service contractors. To overcome this hurdle, Lapinski Electrical Contractors is actively seeking a zoning change to Industrial Planned Unit Development (PUD). This endeavor has garnered approval from the Planning Board and secured unanimous support from the City Council’s Zoning Committee, with a 6-0 vote in favor.
The forthcoming zoning alteration proposal is anticipated to undergo a final vote by the full City Council in the near future. As part of the company’s expansion plan, Lapinski intends to erect a primary building measuring 150 by 80 feet, complemented by an accessory building spanning 40 by 30 feet. Notably, the former American Legion Hall, previously situated on the property, has been dismantled to pave the way for these construction endeavors.
Proponents of the zoning change emphasize the compatibility of the proposal with the neighboring area. They highlight that several nearby lots, including those within the Chicopee River Business Park, fall under the Garden Industrial Planned Unit Development zoning category, which explicitly allows construction services. Additionally, proponents argue that this change would introduce new tax revenue streams to the city, as the previous property owner did not contribute any taxes to Chicopee.
It is worth noting that the vicinity surrounding the property in question features only one residential structure, and no objections have been raised from the local community regarding the proposed zoning change. City Planner Lee Pouliot further underscores the proposal’s alignment with the area, noting that it would not result in a zoning anomaly within the neighborhood. This strategic move by Lapinski Electrical Contractors represents a proactive step toward accommodating growth and fostering business expansion within Chicopee.
