The discussion on the variance request for a property on Columbus Avenue South centered on a proposal to reduce the required lot width from 60 feet to 59.5 feet due to historical surveying errors. The variance was necessary to allow the future subdivision of the property into two compliant lots. A public hearing invited residents to express concerns, with some highlighting potential impacts on neighborhood character and drainage issues. Residents questioned the possibility of increased housing density and its effects on property values and infrastructure. In response, planning staff clarified that the subsequent subdivision process would ensure compliance with city requirements, allowing only one home on each newly created lot.

Commissioners weighed the neighborhood’s concerns against Bloomington’s housing needs, ultimately supporting the variance as a “practical difficulty” beyond the landowner’s control. The motion to approve the variance, including conditions and code requirements, passed unanimously. This decision allows the current house to remain on one lot while permitting a new residence on the other, contingent upon future subdivision approval.

Additionally, the planning commission grappled with proposed amendments to the fence code, focusing on the height and opacity of fences in different zoning districts. The proposal to allow fully opaque fences in front yards drew mixed reactions, with some commissioners opposing it due to potential nuisances and community engagement concerns. The debate extended to the height of fences, particularly the idea of allowing eight-foot fences at the principal building setback. Several commissioners expressed reservations about this change, fearing it could detract from Bloomington’s urban character. Despite these concerns, there was recognition of the potential benefits of taller fences in specific situations, such as mitigating disputes between neighbors.

The commission’s discussions on fence code amendments revealed divergent views on balancing privacy with community aesthetics, leading to a tied vote on an initial motion. A subsequent motion to reintroduce previous standards for fence height and remove opacity standards gained majority support, advancing the recommendations to the City Council for further consideration.

In a zoning matter, the commission discussed a proposed ordinance amendment related to remote airport parking facilities. The proposal aims to transition temporary approvals to permanent status through conditional use permits, specifically in the CX2 district. This change seeks to enhance the financial viability of parking facilities and integrate them with future developments. The ordinance would remove interim use designations in the High-Intensity Mixed-Use Residential district and establish performance standards for remote parking facilities.

During the public hearing, the staff and applicants highlighted the benefits of the proposed zoning changes, emphasizing flexibility and permanent entitlements for developers. The motion to recommend the City Council adopt the ordinance received unanimous support. The commission’s approval marks a critical step toward accommodating expanded parking capacity and encouraging redevelopment around the airport.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the development application fee study, which has been under review for about a year. The study aims to ensure that fees align with the actual costs incurred by the city, in compliance with Minnesota Rule 1300.0160. The commission discussed proposed fee increases, considering factors such as cost recovery and comparison with peer cities. While the adjustments do not fully achieve cost recovery, they aim to close the gap between Bloomington’s fees and those of other municipalities. Concerns were raised about the burden of a flat fee structure on small homeowners versus larger entities.