Several Summit Hill residents say a commercial garage is operating in their neighborhood despite not having zoning approval.

They complained to borough council Tuesday but were told they first must prove that it’s a commercial operation.

About a dozen people attended the meeting but only three spoke. Council President Michael Kokinda urged them to have a spokesperson if they are all present for the same purpose.

The issue involves a property at 100 West White Bear Drive, where the residents claim trucks are being repaired.

On Jan. 19, a zoning hearing was supposed to be held for a variance request by property owner Bradford Reynolds, but Reynolds didn’t attend. As a result, the zoning board denied the variance request.

The request was necessary because the area is zoned residential.

David Broscious of West White Bear Drive said he understood that a cease-and-desist order would be issued against Reynolds but “nothing ceased.”

He said he saw seven trucks at the property. He said the operation creates noise and odor.

Attorney Robert Frycklund, the borough’s solicitor, said the zoning application was withdrawn “so there is nothing to cease and desist.” He said the zoning officer is going to need proof that it’s a commercial operation before any action can be taken.

“If we give a cease-and-desist order and end up in court, we must prove he has a commercial operation,” said the solicitor.

Manny Lanzos, a resident of West White Bear Drive, said the business has been advertised on social media.

The solicitor said the complaints during the meeting aren’t relevant unless it is proven a business exists. Kokinda then halted discussion on the matter.

In other zoning business, council agreed “to transfer all zoning and code enforcement issues to the police department.”

Council member David Wargo said a police officer will be designated a zoning and code enforcement officer. That officer will receive training from the borough.

Wargo said this was actually a suggestion from the police department.

While the borough has had an individual serve as zoning officer in the past, only the police had the authority to issue citations.

Zoning officer Danny Matika had been the zoning officer but resigned in October, but he remained in the position until a replacement officer could be found.

He said he will help to train the police officer who is put in charge of the enforcement.