0:00The push for design flexibility at the existing Club Car Wash, formerly Rapids Express Car Wash, was a focal point of the meeting. The applicant, Lee and Associates, sought approval to alter the building’s facade by painting its red brick exterior in black and white to align with corporate branding. This request conflicted with the overlay district’s mandate that 30% of the facade maintain a brick aesthetic. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the request, citing the painting as a cost-effective alternative to demolition and a means to preserve environmental resources.

During discussions, a council member raised the possibility of tearing down the building if the design flexibility was not granted. This led to an acknowledgment of the environmental impact associated with demolition. Michael Leig, representing the applicant, stressed the necessity of the painted facade for brand consistency. He confirmed that the blue roof would be replaced with similar materials rather than painted, which aligned with the chain’s visual branding.

17:04The meeting opened a public hearing on the car wash proposal, but no community comments were received. The lack of public opposition, combined with the Planning Commission’s favorable stance, contributed to the council’s decision to approve the design flexibility, allowing the car wash to proceed with its planned aesthetic changes.

The second significant topic was the townhome development proposed on Butternut Street Northwest. This project involved rezoning the former Peace Lutheran Church’s community garden to a planned unit development (PUD) overlay to allow for residential use. The proposal featured 34 townhomes, with access exclusively from University Avenue to mitigate traffic on Butternut Street. This revision addressed concerns from a previous proposal denied in 2024 due to traffic issues.

49:00Despite the adaptations, nearby residents voiced strong objections during the public hearing. Concerns centered around increased traffic, pedestrian safety, and the potential impact on property values. Alan Prater, a resident, highlighted the dangers posed by additional traffic, particularly for children walking to school. He questioned the traffic management plan.

Other residents echoed these sentiments, requesting measures such as fences for privacy and safety. Deborah, another community member, criticized the estimated 250 trips generated by the development, arguing that outsiders could not accurately gauge the traffic impact. She proposed alternative uses for the site, such as a small commercial strip mall, to preserve the neighborhood’s character.

1:06:18The council discussed various solutions to address these concerns, including speed bumps and pedestrian safety enhancements. A commissioner suggested that most traffic would likely occur during peak hours, minimizing the overall impact. However, the proposal’s approval was contentious, with a 6-1 vote in favor of recommending the PUD to the city council.

The meeting concluded with updates on other city developments, including renovations at the old Dairy Queen site and plans for a new gas station. While the discussion on these projects was brief, it underscored the ongoing efforts to manage growth and change in Coon Rapids.