The meeting’s most notable topic was the discussion surrounding a proposed ordinance aimed at prohibiting outdoor storage for crypto mining facilities due to noise concerns. This proposal emerged after residents voiced complaints about the continuous noise generated by existing crypto mining operations. The ordinance would mandate that outdoor storage be located at least 100 feet away from residential properties, parks, and schools. During the public hearing, residents expressed their gratitude for the commission’s efforts, with one noting that other cities were seeking guidance on similar issues. Another resident described the persistent noise from the current facility, likening it to machinery work near their home.

The commission’s questions focused on understanding the ordinance’s implications for existing facilities. It was clarified that while current operations could continue, they would not be allowed to expand under the new regulations. The discussion also covered other technological uses beyond crypto mining, such as AI and data storage centers, which could produce similar noise issues. A commissioner emphasized the need to distinguish these uses within the ordinance to ensure it remains applicable to emerging technologies.

Following the noise regulation discussion, the commission addressed an ordinance regulating garage requirements for residential housing units. The proposed changes would eliminate the requirement for two-to-four unit buildings to have garages, while single-family homes would need either a 12×20 garage or a 10×12 shed. This adjustment aims to allow the market to dictate garage construction and potentially lower development costs for affordable housing. The commission unanimously approved the motion, which will proceed to the city council for further consideration.

Another topic was the conditional use permit (CUP) amendment for the Brainerd Family YMCA. The amendment seeks to allow the construction of a 50ft x 50ft fenced playground at the YMCA’s commercial daycare facility located on Oak Street. This proposed playground would eliminate the need for transporting children across the street to an existing facility, addressing safety concerns. The staff recommended approval, noting that the playground would not interfere with existing parking or drop-off procedures. Public comments during the hearing supported the YMCA’s initiative, with one representative emphasizing the necessity of the designated space to accommodate up to 20 children outdoors at once.

The commission then transitioned to a broader discussion on building design standards and outdoor storage units. The conversation included an affirmation that data processors cannot be situated outside, differentiating them from other types of operations. A motion was made to recommend approval of an interim use permit concerning these outdoor storage units, which was seconded without further discussion. One member expressed a desire to address noise and sound issues in a broader future discussion, despite agreeing to proceed with the current motion.

The meeting also touched on increasing housing options within the city, particularly focusing on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and their rental potential. A member expressed disappointment about the lack of ADUs being developed and suggested exploring options that would allow for more housing. The conversation highlighted the need to consider allowing rental lots to include accessory dwellings, which would still require a conditional use permit to enable residents to voice their opinions on such developments.

Further discussions involved garage placements in neighborhoods, with a consensus to maintain a setback requirement of five feet behind the principal structure for attached garages to enhance neighborhood aesthetics. However, it was suggested that contemporary neighborhoods might benefit from more flexibility in setbacks compared to traditional neighborhoods. The commission also discussed design standards for one to four-unit buildings, proposing that at least one entrance should face the street to eliminate ambiguity in the code.

The commission addressed the consideration of a minimum unit size for two to four unit buildings, proposing a reduction from the current 500 square feet to 400 square feet, aligning with existing standards for multifamily efficiency units. There were no significant objections to this change.

Additionally, the meeting covered various topics related to commercial and industrial use. A recommendation was made to include the Public School and Public Facilities (PSP) district within the commercial use design standards, emphasizing that industrial designs should not apply to areas adjacent to commercial zones. The commission discussed the increasing presence of metal siding in commercial construction and suggested permitting metal siding through a conditional use permit to allow for aesthetic review.

Some members favored a more lenient approach to regulations, while others advocated for stricter guidelines to ensure quality development.