The most notable item was the approval of Ordinance Amendment 001-25, which introduced several changes to Chapter 20 of the Nisswa city code. This amendment was designed to enhance clarity and ensure compliance with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) standards, particularly concerning floodplain management. The amendment refined the definition of the plan development district and updated the land use chart to better clarify permitted uses based on zoning districts. A significant adjustment reduced the allowable development area on GD Lake from 27,000 square feet to 20,000 square feet. Additional changes established standards for setbacks, building heights, and accessory structure sizes. The ordinance also incorporated floodplain standards, with definitions added or modified to improve understanding of city codes.

During the discussion, clarification was sought on buildable areas and restrictions related to floodway construction. It was confirmed that floodway areas would not be counted as buildable, a critical aspect for ensuring development safety in flood-prone areas. The need for potential future modifications, particularly regarding riprap regulations, was also discussed. The commission unanimously voted to recommend the ordinance changes for city council approval, with a conditional approval letter already received from the DNR affirming compliance.

Another major item on the agenda was the conditional use permit (CUP) application from Jamie Nelson for a new business venture in the central business zoning district. The proposed project included a retail store, commercial kitchen, and event space on Marill Avenue. Nelson emphasized the growing trend of wellness tourism and the potential for creating a community-oriented space promoting health and well-being. The business would utilize the existing structure, requiring internal renovations only, with proposed parking using existing on-street options. Nelson highlighted the need for a CUP due to the absence of a previous permit for the pre-existing use.

The commission considered the application, discussing compliance with signage regulations and licensing requirements from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Nelson reiterated the potential for Nisswa to become a wellness destination, citing significant market growth projections. The commission reviewed findings and facts related to the application and unanimously recommended the CUP for approval, recognizing its potential contribution to the local economy.

The proposal for a laundromat, identified as conditional use permit 00325, also garnered attention. The laundromat, to be located within the central business zoning district on Church Street, was proposed to fill a gap in Nisswa’s offerings. The applicant expressed confidence that the laundromat would complement existing businesses, suggesting that while customers wait for their laundry, they might shop or dine locally. Despite concerns about its appropriateness in a tourism-focused area, the proximity to the police station was noted as an asset for addressing safety concerns. The commission unanimously approved the laundromat permit after considering these aspects.

The meeting also included a proposal for a multi-tenant strip mall on Smiley Road, which required a conditional use permit for retail and service use within the highway business zoning district. The proposal involved expanding the parking lot and adding a service drive, with the building designed to match existing structures. Discussions included the need for a drainage easement for stormwater management. The commission approved the permit following amendments to the proposal.

Additionally, the commission approved a meets and bounds subdivision application and reviewed an ordinance revision proposal concerning holding tanks. The revision aimed to streamline processes by removing the CUP requirement and mandating a monitoring and disposal contract instead. These ordinance updates align with state and county regulations for advanced systems, with a public hearing scheduled at the city council level.