Minutes - Planning Commission - 05/23/2018 - Jt CC Planning EDA Work Session

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Councilmember Riley asked the current zoning of the property. Community Development Director Gladhill noted that the property is zoned for retail. He stated that auto type uses were originally not permitted for that property. Councilmember Riley asked for input on the proposed sites. Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama provided background information on the previous uses of the properties. Community Development Director Gladhill noted that existing uses in that area are heavy industrial and there had been an effort to redevelop that area as more retail. Mr. Pankratz stated that this user was adjacent to a Cub Foods in another area. He noted that heavy mechanical work is not being done, it is more light work like tires and oil changes. Councilmember Shryock stated that when she first read the case she did not oppose this use. She stated that some of the language makes her nervous, specifically allowing auto sales. She stated that perhaps the retail service auto use be allowed but not auto sales. Planning Commissioner Woestehoff agreed and asked if the code distinguished between auto sales and auto retail. Community Development Director Gladhill confirmed that specification could be made. Planning Commissioner Bauer agreed that auto repair is needed in Ramsey. He stated that often when he drops a vehicle off, he frequents other businesses in the area. He stated that type of business will draw people in and encourage them to visit other businesses in the area. Councilmember Kuzma agreed that he could also support this type of use. Planning Commissioner Van Scoy stated that he likes the concept as this would bring people into the community. He suggested that staff consider rezoning the section west of Armstrong, modifying that to provide additional flexibility and separation. Planning Commissioner Surma concurred with the comments of Commissioners Van Scoy and Bauer. He stated that the old Wiser Choice property would be a good fit. EDA Member Steffen asked if the user is looking at one parcel specifically. Mr. Pankratz stated that it is more of whether the use would be allowed before selecting a site preference. Councilmember Riley confirmed consensus that the group would be supportive of that use in this area. City Council Work Session/May 23, 2018 Page 12 of 14