00:48The meeting opened with the discussion of a fence appeal for a property located at 1111 7th Street Northwest. The homeowner, Holly Flanders, had previously submitted a request to erect a six-foot vinyl privacy fence, set 14 feet back from an alley. Flanders, who could not attend due to work commitments, provided a letter detailing her reasons for the fence. She cited the need for privacy and the safety of her two large, active dogs, which currently require retractable leashes due to the yard’s lack of enclosure. Commissioners discussed the visibility concerns and concluded that the proposed setback would not impede sight lines for pedestrians or vehicles. A motion was made to recommend the city council approve the appeal, contingent upon the 14-foot setback condition.

08:19Next, the commission addressed a sign variance request for the Hormel Brand store located at the rear of the Games People Play building on 18th Avenue Northwest. The petitioner sought to install a 10-foot by 4-foot lighted sign to enhance the store’s visibility from 17th Avenue, a request that deviates from standard city sign regulations limiting signage in such zones. The commission noted the unique orientation of the building and the growing development in the vicinity, which could obscure existing signage. The variance was viewed as essential for maintaining business visibility and was recommended for approval to the city council. The proposed sign would cover only 2% of the building’s face, well below the city’s 15% limit.

18:45Additionally, the commission briefly touched on ongoing community engagement efforts. A planning activity was announced, aimed at gathering public input for future developments along the Oakland and First Avenue Corridor. This initiative, part of an EPA-backed project, will involve workshops and meetings with planners from different regions.