8-7-2024: Re: ZD 048/24 Industrial Ice Manufacturing and Vending Machines

August 7, 2024 

New Orleans City Council 
1300 Perdido Street 
New Orleans, LA 

Re: ZD 048/24 Industrial Ice Manufacturing and Vending Machines 

Dear City Councilmembers: 

The Louisiana Landmarks Society endorses the staff report submitted by the City Planning Commission regarding ice vending machines. A more precise definition of ice machines, distinguishing between small freezers used for bagged ice sales and large-scale Ice Manufacturing and Vending Machines, is needed. 

These larger units, comparable in size to cargo containers or mid-sized recreational vehicles, present several concerns. They are unsightly in urban settings and their operation generates considerable noise. Furthermore, they are primarily designed for vehicular access and function 24 hours a day. 

Most critically, we believe these Ice Manufacturing and Vending Machines are incompatible with the aesthetic and historical integrity of our city's historic districts. We concur with the staff report's recommendation that these machines should be restricted to the city's highest-intensity commercial and industrial zoning districts. 

We urge the Council to protect the character of our historic areas by prohibiting the installation of this industrial equipment in these sensitive locations. At minimum, we would ask that they be made a Condition Use rather than Permitted – so each location will be individually evaluated as to its appropriateness. Your efforts to limit the proliferation of these large-scale vending machines are greatly appreciated. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Respectfully, 

 Sandra Stokes 
Chair of Advocacy 
Louisiana Landmarks Society