The most noteworthy item on the agenda was the approval of a CUP to convert an existing structure at 1001 3rd Avenue South into a communication exchange. The building, historically a mix of offices and communication facilities, was originally designated as a data center for American Express. The application, presented by Andrew Liska, aimed to address ambiguities in zoning code requirements following a recent amendment. The applicant’s representative, Jake Stein, framed the application as a “paperwork clean-up” and assured that no exterior changes were planned.

Public reaction to the proposal was mixed. A resident from an apartment building on Nicollet Mall expressed opposition to the CUP, arguing that the proposal required further study due to potential impacts on utility usage. The resident contended that the current assessment failed to consider increases in water, electricity, or internet bandwidth demands, contrasting historical data usage with present-day needs. The speaker questioned the alignment of the project with Development Policy 23 of the Minneapolis 2040 Plan, expressing skepticism about its benefits to the community and urging the Commission to reconsider the proposal.

In response, a commissioner inquired about the city’s approach to evaluating CUPs for communication exchanges. Staff noted that a zoning code text amendment was under examination to assess the impacts of larger data centers on utilities. Although this specific project did not necessitate extensive environmental review, future regulations would address broader implications. Another commissioner voiced support for the project, emphasizing the need for improved data infrastructure in downtown Minneapolis. The commission voted unanimously to approve the CUP.

The discussion then moved to a proposal for a community center at 3148 41st Avenue South, which involved changing the use of an existing religious institution to a community center. This CUP application included plans for maintaining the building footprint, adding classrooms, a large meeting area, and an upgraded commercial kitchen. During the public hearing, several community members voiced concerns regarding parking availability, property management, and the nonprofit’s capacity to manage the community center effectively.

A longtime Cooper neighborhood resident, Sylvia Gonzalez, expressed skepticism about the applicant’s visitor number projections, emphasizing the need for parking solutions. Other residents echoed these concerns, highlighting the lack of community engagement in the planning process and the need for verifiable information about the nonprofit’s history and capacity. Despite these concerns, commissioners acknowledged that parking issues were common among community facilities and emphasized the importance of community partnerships. The CUP was approved with six affirmative votes.

The meeting continued with a proposal for an addition to Roosevelt High School, requiring four land use applications, including a variance for building placement. The project aimed to support career technical education programs by updating the school’s facilities. Community members expressed dissatisfaction with the level of engagement regarding the project and raised concerns over the loss of parking spaces. The applicant confirmed that bike racks were included in the design, and a secure entry system would enhance safety at the school. Despite community concerns, the commission voted unanimously in favor of the project.