02/19/2024
Friends, we were not going to say anything about this, but since it has been brought up, we will let you all know what’s going on. In January, we went to city hall and asked if we could move the pawnshop to Lebanon Street, as we would be operating on a limited basis from that location. Primarily by appointment- with no U-Hauls, title pawns, or loans other than the regular item pawns and our FFL. We were told that should not be an issue and were issued a business license that day for 2024. While we were there, we asked about our dumpster and were told since it was a house, we had to have a can. This was not an issue. We also asked about creating a U-shaped drive around the property and having one more driveway added so that traffic was not disturbed. They told us to check back on that. After we were issued the business license, we began to move. It wasn’t until almost two weeks later that we were informed by the ATF (not the City of Roanoke) that the city didn’t approve our FFL. When we went there to inquire about this, we were told they decided after they printed the business license and let us leave with it that they would hold our check, not deposit it, and not honor our license. We asked what could be done about this, and they said that we could apply for rezoning. We then asked about the bank parking lot connecting to our property, which is commercial, to find out that it is currently zoned residential but that the finalization of rezoning it would be done during the meeting in February or March. Had they not sold us the license, we would not have moved like we did. If anyone would like to discuss your concerns with us, please send a message or give us a call. We will be glad to let everyone know what is going on. We are currently trying to get the property rezoned as commercial, and we will let everyone know how it goes, as it could be a lengthy process. We have been here 25 years, and giving up is not in our blood. I will do my best to find a solution that works with everyone. For now, I will use Lebanon Street as a home office and place for my daughter to hang out with us during the day. Anyone is welcome to come by and see the progress made in turning this 130-year-old home into a beautiful office space while still keeping its old charm. I will always buy Guns, Gold, Coins, Junk Cars, Old houses, Games, DVDs, and random old things that catch my attention for my personal collection, even if I no longer have a business. You can find me on Facebook or call me anytime at 256-276-9751 or 334-338-2882. We also signed a 5-year contract with TEC to get fiber internet brought to Lebanon Street, so you can still reach me at both of our office numbers: 334-863-7861 or 334-863-7862. I believe my customers will find me no matter where I go, and I truly appreciate each of you.
- Jesse and Kelsey