The commission’s most pressing agenda item was a request involving LANR’s comprehensive plan amendment and zoning map amendment. The proposal aims to change the land designation from low-density residential to low-medium density residential, along with rezoning the property from RS3 single-family residential to RS2 single- and two-family residential. This development, situated between Holio and High View Roads and north of Heritage Drive, plans to introduce 46 single-family homes across three parcels totaling 20.06 acres.

During the staff presentation, it was highlighted that this change would increase the allowable density from three to five units per acre, providing a transitional buffer between existing townhomes to the south and single-family homes to the north and east. Concerns from local residents focused on the development’s potential impact on traffic and property values. James Blair, a resident, voiced worries about his property becoming landlocked and traffic congestion exacerbated by the nearby All Saints Church. Jessica Feist, another resident, shared concerns about property values declining due to being surrounded by larger multifamily homes.

Staff member Miss Bton addressed the residents’ concerns, clarifying that the property in question would maintain its low-density residential guidance and RS3 zoning. She explained that developers must submit a preliminary plat. Miss Bton also noted that the development would only permit single-family homes or twin homes, ruling out larger multifamily structures.

Regarding the traffic issues, Miss Bton acknowledged potential concerns during church services but emphasized that access points are designed to enhance safety by aligning opposite each other. She mentioned that planned reconstruction of Holy Oak would consider the development’s impact on traffic flow, with improvements expected in the coming years.

The commission also discussed a proposal for rezoning a property from RS3 to RS2 to accommodate both single-family and two-family residential structures. A motion to approve the rezoning was made, contingent on final plat approval and city council endorsement. Following a roll call vote, the motion passed, allowing the proposal to proceed to the city council meeting in early February. This step highlights the transparent process, with opportunities for further public input.

Another topic was the conditional use permit application from the Lakeville Soccer Association. The association sought approval for a commercial recreation facility in the office park district on Juniper Way. The new facility, spanning approximately 21,000 square feet, would provide improved training facilities for players and families. The association has outgrown its current space and needs a larger location with designated office space for staff.

Traffic and parking logistics were scrutinized, particularly due to potential congestion when the soccer facility and a nearby pickleball facility both operate at peak times. Despite this, the site offers 280 parking spaces, deemed sufficient though occasionally requiring visitors to park further away. The applicants proposed measures to mitigate traffic issues, such as increasing staff presence for vehicle guidance and staggering participant arrival and dismissal times.

The commission ultimately recommended approval of the conditional use permit, recognizing the facility’s potential community benefits. The planning staff clarified that zoning regulations do not limit the number of commercial recreational facilities in the district, though building owners may impose restrictions. The proposal received favorable votes, and the commission expressed anticipation for the soccer club’s expanded community role.