Editor’s note: The following letter is in response to the letter “RaceTrac Is Not Appropriate” by Lenore White published Dec. 18, in response to Richard Nielsen’s previous letter.
The matter being discussed is whether or not the owner of a commercial property can sell or establish a lawful business within the guidelines of such use as determined by the Village of Royal Palm Beach.
Contrary to previous comments about how two previous businesses (banks) failed, there is no evidence offered that supports the contention that the business practices and lack of acumen but rather, it was the location. Curiously, the fact remains that two successful gas stations prospered in the area but were lost with the widening of Southern Blvd.
There is really limited appeal for any business outside of a gas station to be successful next to a hotel, owing to its transient nature. Travelers recognize throughout the country that choosing a hotel next to a gas station is not only appropriate, but convenient, and the decision to put a gas station next to a hotel is not an unusual decision, but a common one judging by the number of hotels who have gas stations adjacent to their properties.
In conclusion, no, I’m not an attorney, but then neither am I running for office posturing for notice by the electorate.
Richard Nielsen, Royal Palm Beach
