The most prominent topic of discussion was the proposed ordinance amendment to accommodate a group residential facility at St. Thomas Aquinas Church. The facility, which previously served as a battered women’s shelter and later a chemical dependency treatment center, is now being considered for a model where residents would live on the property but receive treatment offsite. This change necessitated an amendment to the existing ordinance, as the current conditional use permit required on-site care.

Ted Herman, representing the Crescendo chemical health program, outlined the proposal for an intensive outpatient treatment facility similar to sober living arrangements. Herman explained that the facility would support individuals transitioning from inpatient care, emphasizing a structured recovery process. However, concerns were raised about the facility’s impact on the neighborhood, safety, and the adequacy of supervision. Public comments revealed apprehensions about potential disturbances, with residents recalling past incidents of vandalism and public disturbances when the facility operated under Haven Homes.

One resident, Haley Ked, expressed significant concern over safety, recounting previous experiences of vandalism and emergency responder presence. Ked opposed re-establishing the facility, citing the need for safety in a family-oriented neighborhood near a church and school. In response, Herman assured that the facility would implement rules to foster responsible behavior among residents, though he noted that sober homes typically avoid signage to reduce stigma.

The commission acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing their role in assessing zoning criteria rather than operational specifics. They discussed the potential need for 24-hour staffing as a condition for approving the facility’s operation to address public safety concerns. The dialogue underscored the community’s apprehension about integrating such facilities into residential areas.

In addition to the sober living facility, the commission reviewed a conditional use permit proposal from AEN Homes. The motion to deny the CUP proposal was passed with a three-to-one vote. Despite the denial, the commission suggested holding a public hearing to document discussions and gather further comments for the city council.

The meeting also addressed an amendment requested by the St. Paul Park Refining Company to add facilities to a site predating current zoning laws. The commission expressed favorable views toward the request, emphasizing operational improvements and their potential to reduce emissions. A public hearing resulted in unanimous approval of the CUP and variance request, forwarding it to the city council for consideration.

Furthermore, the commission examined a subdivision concept plan for a single-family home development on 18th Avenue and Lincoln Street. The proposed development by Lennar aims to construct 48 homes on 29 acres, adhering to low-density residential zoning requirements. The commission supported the concept plan, emphasizing the importance of pedestrian pathways and infrastructure development to connect the new subdivision to existing parks and neighborhoods.

Discussions also touched on a proposed development straddling St. Paul Park and Cottage Grove. The planning commission highlighted the necessity of securing a shared road, Geneva, and anticipated collaboration with Cottage Grove to address construction and utility responsibilities. Environmental concerns about nearby industrial uses and their impact on the residential development were also noted.

The commission ultimately agreed to support a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district for the Hidden Harbor development, contingent on future detailed proposals aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan. Despite concerns about the adequacy of submitted materials, the commission unanimously voted to move forward with the TIF process.