The proposal for a property on Johnson Street Northeast, which aims to construct a two-story commercial building housing a grocery store and childcare center, emerged as a primary focus. The project requires a series of approvals, including a plan amendment, rezoning, and variances related to off-street parking and business signage. The site, once a contractor’s yard, is a teardrop-shaped parcel near I-35W, necessitating innovative approaches to accessibility and visibility.

Central to the discussion was the applicant’s request for a signage variance. The staff emphasized that the variance lacked justification under the current regulations, which aim to minimize signage clutter in densely populated areas.

Commissioners deliberated on the merits of the proposed signage, with some expressing concern over potential precedents for future signage requests. In the end, the commission unanimously supported the staff’s recommendation to deny the variance.

Another topic was the comprehensive plan amendment for properties on 12th Avenue South, aimed at facilitating a mixed-use development. This proposal seeks to reclassify the land from “Urban Neighborhood” to “Corridor Mixed Use,” allowing for increased density and commercial flexibility. The staff supported the amendment, stating it aligns with the Minneapolis 2040 Plan’s goals of enhancing housing supply and promoting walkability along transit corridors.

The proposal sparked a discussion about the potential impact on the surrounding neighborhood. Concerns were raised about the density moving inward from Lake Street and the challenges posed by narrow streets and limited parking. Commissioners weighed the benefits of revitalizing commercial areas against the risks of altering the character of established residential zones.

Community engagement was a recurring theme, as residents voiced mixed reactions to the proposed changes. Some expressed support for increased housing options, while others worried about the implications of high-density developments on traffic and neighborhood cohesion. The applicant assured adherence to city engagement requirements, but the limited turnout and language barriers at previous meetings were noted as areas needing improvement.

In response to community concerns, commissioners discussed potential design adjustments, such as stepping down building heights at the edges of developments to mitigate impacts on single-family homes. The commission ultimately approved the staff’s findings in favor of the comprehensive plan amendment, but the close vote highlighted ongoing community divisions.