A heated zoning hearing on Monday night saw Seffner residents and representatives of a salvage yard clash over proposed upgrades, with neighbors raising alarms about potential drinking water contamination.

Last month, an investigation by WTSP revealed that the salvage yard, operated by American and Import Auto Parts, is not in compliance with current zoning regulations or the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the agency responsible for safeguarding water resources.

During the Hillsborough County zoning hearing, numerous opponents argued against allowing the salvage yard, which processes wrecked vehicles, to make upgrades, citing improper zoning. Sierra Club volunteer Todd Randolph stated, “The Sierra Club found that the Environmental Services Division’s initial review provided enough evidence to deny this rezoning. This site lies within a wellhead resource protection area, and the county’s comprehensive plan includes specific policies to protect potable water and natural resources.”

Representatives for the salvage yard, including lawyers and planners, countered that the operation is legal and the rezoning request aims to align with regulations following a land use change from decades ago. The parcel in question was previously used by former MLB player Garry Hancock for his family’s irrigation business. After its sale over a decade ago, it was designated as “open storage” land, but shifted to salvage yard use instead of storing irrigation equipment. Contracted planner Isabella Albert highlighted mitigation efforts, saying, “They’re increasing buffers and screening, adjusting the compactor’s orientation, and limiting operating hours to reduce impacts on nearby residential areas.”

A February report by WTSP noted that the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) had flagged motor oil as a “widespread issue” in 2022, with sampling results exceeding pollutant thresholds. The company now claims it is DEP-compliant. Hillsborough County Environmental Services approved the zoning request, contingent on the company securing a special well water protection permit from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Resident Michelle Miles expressed concern, stating, “He’s not zoned to handle all these cars, and they’re being placed on soil near wells that supply water to over 100 homes in the drainage area.” The district informed WTSP via email that it has no record of a permit application from the company.

The zoning officer heard testimony and will submit a recommendation to county commissioners within two weeks, with the board scheduled to review the request in May. Neighbor Russell Conn urged swift action, saying, “I don’t think we need to spend more time on this before they seek approval from the BOCC and this group.”

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(Image credit: WTSP)

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