A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to finalizing the proposed building design standards ordinance, which had been under revision for several months. This ordinance introduces requirements for standing seam metal roofs for single-family homes and revises regulations for accessory structures under 200 square feet. A notable correction was made to a typographical error regarding the maximum lot size in the TN1 district, adjusting it from 1,500 square feet to 10,500 square feet. After some discussion, the commission included an amendment to increase the maximum lot size to 11,250 square feet to accommodate properties in North Brainerd lacking alley access. With these changes, the ordinance was approved unanimously and will be presented in upcoming City Council meetings for potential adoption.

The commission also deliberated on a variance request for a fence erected in violation of zoning codes. The property owners sought a variance due to the location of a sidewalk, which made compliance challenging. Despite the staff’s recommendation to approve the variance, citing negligible impact on neighboring properties, the commission leaned towards a strict interpretation of the ordinance. After a public hearing where no comments were received, the variance was denied, emphasizing the need for property owners to adhere to established zoning regulations.

One of the most debated topics was the proposed crypto mining ordinance, which aims to regulate data centers, including crypto mining, AI centers, and cloud storage facilities. The commission engaged with industry representatives to gather insights on the draft ordinance, particularly focusing on noise issues. It was suggested that annual noise studies, although potentially discriminatory, should apply uniformly across industries to ensure fairness.

Commissioners also explored the broader implications of defining data centers, recognizing the rapid technological advancements that challenge future regulatory frameworks. Concerns were raised about the impact of new technologies, such as quantum computing, on existing regulations, emphasizing the need for adaptable policies. As part of this dialogue, the commission considered the practicality of enforcing existing noise standards and the potential for requiring noise mitigation measures for data centers.

The conversation extended to the potential environmental impacts of data centers, particularly energy consumption. A proposal was made to align with a model from Missoula, mandating data centers to offset their electricity consumption with renewable energy. This sparked a debate on the feasibility and economic implications of such requirements, with concerns about making Brainerd less attractive to potential investors if energy mandates were imposed.

Hazardous waste management was another key topic, with discussions on requiring developers to submit compliance plans in line with Minnesota Pollution Control Agency regulations. The commission contemplated extending the notification radius for hazardous waste disposal from 350 feet to a half-mile to increase transparency and community awareness. Additionally, suggestions for neighborhood meetings were made to foster better communication between developers and residents, particularly concerning noise and other potential disturbances.

The meeting concluded with updates on the Country Manor development project, which is nearing construction and includes a senior living facility and childcare center. The Economic Development Authority has recommended additional tax abatement for this project, aligning with efforts to support local development. The commission also acknowledged the approval of applications for the state affordable housing aid program, aimed at addressing housing challenges within the community.