Minutes - Planning Commission - 04/27/2023

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Commissioner Heineman asked for details on what would trigger the expansion or whether they could ultimately come to the conclusion that an expansion would not be necessary. He asked what would be done with the additional land if the expansion were not to occur. Ms. Allegra replied that the expansion could add 30 to 40 additional rooms and perhaps a meeting room or additional dining options. She commented that around the five-year mark they would look into whether an expansion would make sense. She stated that if they do not utilize the space for an expansion, they believe a restaurant use would be complimentary. Chairperson Gengler asked if the applicant has similar businesses in other communities. Ms. Allegra replied that this would be their first of this kind. She noted their experience in manufacturing and industrial/commercial real estate. She noted that they will work with a professional company for management of the hotel and is also why they partnered with Hilton. Commissioner Bauer noted that this would be an extended stay hotel and asked who the anticipated clientele would be. Ms. Allegra commented that the benefit of an extended stay is that people in town for business will have more space and can spend more time. She stated that overnight guests would also be welcome and noted that this option would accommodate all users more comfortably. Commissioner Hunt noted the safety concerns mentioned in the letters they received from the Commission and asked the applicant to address those concerns. Ms. Allegra acknowledged the concerns regarding safety and the clientele that may come in. She noted that this would be upper mid -scale, with a daily rate of about $134. She noted that will help to weed out the problematic clientele. She stated that Hilton has quality assurance standards as a partner and has not had issues with the extended stay concerns of other extended stay hotels. Commissioner Heineman asked if they would be franchising the brand. Ms. Allegra confirmed that they would be building and operating, and this will be a Ramsey owned and operated company. Commissioner Hunt asked if the applicant would anticipate taller signage along Highway 10. Ms. Allegra commented that they have not discussed that. She noted that the building would be four stories high and therefore did not have any concerns with visibility. Kevin Ealain, 16254 Kamacite Street NW, asked if the applicant had selected a general contractor. The applicant replied that they are in the bidding process. Mr. Ealain commented that he is concerned with the recent attention to unfair labor practices and asked what would be in place to ensure fair labor practices. Planning Commission/ April 27, 2023 Page 5 of 9