The Red Rock Square 3 project dominated the meeting’s agenda. This development constitutes the final phase of a broader project and encompasses two parcels, one of which is currently vacant. The proposed building is set to include a tot lot for children’s recreation, ample surface parking, and underground parking facilities. A storm water pond, serving both the Red Rock Square sites and a nearby transit station, will be situated adjacent to undevelopable wetlands, highlighting the site’s adherence to existing environmental regulations. The commission’s approval included a development agreement with the developer, contingent on project approval.

A point of discussion revolved around the project’s adherence to city zoning standards. The proposed building materials, primarily stone and block, did not meet the city’s 50% requirement, achieving only 42%. However, the commission supported this deviation, citing consistency with surrounding developments. Similarly, the parking layout fell short of the city’s requirement for parking islands, achieving only 5% instead of the mandated 10%. Given the site constraints, the staff expressed comfort with this shortfall due to the preservation of open space and landscaping. The city ordinance mandates a minimum of 10% open space, and the proposal offers approximately 50%, which accommodates existing wetlands and the storm water pond.

Tree preservation was another topic, as the site’s configuration limited the ability to plant the required number of trees. While 53 trees were proposed, the ordinance required 81. To address this, staff recommended a fee in lieu of planting additional trees, allowing the city to invest in tree planting elsewhere. The need for parkland dedication was also discussed. With new residences anticipated to increase demand on city parks, staff proposed a fee to address this demand, given the proximity of Lions Park.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the ongoing need for design standard concessions for the Red Rock Square developments. One commissioner voiced frustration, noting, “this is six years in the making and we’re on the third one and we’re still giving concessions.” The staff acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing that the design standards are under reevaluation to address persistent issues. The commission ultimately moved forward with the project, recommending the city council approve the preliminary and final plans.

In addition to the Red Rock Square 3 discussion, the commission addressed a conditional use permit (CUP) for the installation of fiber optic telecommunications within the city’s floodway district. This project involves approximately two miles of telecommunications utility, including a segment that crosses the Mississippi River. The construction method, horizontal directional drilling, is designed to be minimally invasive, with the drill path situated 15 feet below the riverbed to prevent impact on water flow or the riverbed. City staff confirmed compliance with relevant codes, and conditions of approval included obtaining necessary permits from Newport and the South Washington Watershed District.

The fiber optic project is intended for multiple uses, with different companies able to lease the infrastructure for purposes such as connecting data centers and providing broadband services. The commission discussed the significance of fiber optics in enhancing communication capabilities, emphasizing the limitations of wireless technologies. Despite the project’s location on city property, a CUP was required due to its location within the floodway district.