A request for a zoning variance in Summit Hill was denied Wednesday when the applicant failed to appear for the zoning board hearing.

The board unanimously denied the request filed by Bradford Reynolds of West White Bear Drive who asked that the zoning be changed in his area of town from residential to commercial. Reynolds wants to operate a vehicle repair business.

Attorney Kelly Jamison, the solicitor for the zoning board, said, “If the applicant is not here to present his case, then there will be no reason to proceed with the testimony.”

Four people signed the sign-in sheet to give testimony at the hearing. About 20 people filled the council chamber of the borough hall for the session.

Jamison said the purpose for the hearing is “the applicant needs to prove his case.”

Reynolds has 45 days to appeal the decision of the zoning board.