(La Porte, IN) - The owner of a former La Porte scrap yard wants to resume his business at a new location but the city has given his plans a thumbs down.

 

Spectrum Recycling was forced to close recently to allow for construction of an overpass on Tipton St.  The proposed new slightly more than two acre site is similar in size and just a short distance away from the old location.

 

However, the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals on Tuesday turned down the request, citing things like disruption to nearby residents.  Spectrum Recycling Owner David Shaw didn’t see much of a difference between the new and former site.

 

“Basically, we’re moving 200 feet.  We’re in the same neighborhood. We’re doing what we’ve been doing for years,” he said.

 

Also speaking was James Sullivan, who lives close to where the scrap yard used to operate.  Sullivan said he was never bothered by noise and what some people believe was an unsightly operation especially with homes nearby during his 18 years of living at his residence.

 

He said the one issue he ever had was quickly addressed to his liking.

 

“They’ve always been kind, courteous and friendly.  I never had another issue ever since,” he said.

 

Officials said Spectrum Recycling is currently looking at another undisclosed site.  The scrap yard was at its former location for over 70 years before having to shutdown.