2:25The central topic of discussion was the rezoning of the parcel currently zoned A3, designated for general industrial use. The applicant, who intends to continue operating an indoor play park, sought a zoning change to accommodate this use, which the current A3 zoning did not permit. Planner Karsten Day presented the staff report, explaining that the property’s history involved a conditional use permit from 1998 that allowed retail sales of outdoor play equipment but did not extend to indoor recreational activities.

Concerns were raised by the fire prevention and environmental health divisions regarding life safety and zoning compliance, as the applicant’s operations had been categorized as indoor recreation, which is not allowed under the existing zoning. The applicant had already made interior improvements to comply with fire codes but faced administrative citations due to the zoning violation. Enforcement actions were put on hold pending the outcome of the rezoning application.

The staff recommended rezoning the parcel to the Community Commercial district, which would align with the city’s comprehensive plan. The 2014 plan identified the area as transitional, allowing for reconsideration of zoning on a case-by-case basis.

16:11During the public hearing, John Meyer, representing Rainbow Midwest, the business operating the play park, addressed the commission. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to resolve the zoning issue, emphasizing the business’s long-standing presence in Bloomington since 1991. Meyer noted their willingness to comply with parking and outdoor equipment display requirements, contingent on weather conditions, and expressed that the specific zoning designation was less important than the ability to continue operations as intended.

The commission opened the floor for questions, but none were raised, and the public hearing was closed with no public comments. Commissioner Cook reflected on previous rezoning cases, acknowledging that while the current proposal was not a clear-cut decision, it appeared reasonable given the comprehensive plan. Support for the rezoning was echoed by another commissioner, who highlighted the community benefits of the business.

Following the discussion, the commission unanimously voted to recommend that the city council adopt resolutions approving both the comprehensive plan amendment and the rezoning from I3 to B2. These recommendations are set to be considered at the city council meeting scheduled for March 17.

The meeting also included routine agenda items, such as the approval of draft minutes from a previous meeting, and a policy update from Planning Manager Johnson, who outlined upcoming meetings and agenda items, including a study session on the South District Plan and discussions on mixed-use development and sign code amendments.