The meeting’s most significant agenda item revolved around the proposed memory care facility by Atlas Villa, a project seeking to establish a 26-room center on a 4.36-acre site along Ulysi Street. The site plan and conditional use permit (CUP) review drew discussion, as the facility aims to offer specialized services including hospice care, dining, kitchen, and activity spaces, along with a secure outdoor area. The site, currently zoned B3 highway commercial, requires a drainage and utility easement vacation before building permits can be issued. While the proposed design adheres to city architectural and landscaping standards, it introduces the use of Hardy board siding, a material not typically permitted but deemed superior by the developers.

During the public hearing, a representative from Atlas Villa highlighted ongoing discussions about the impact on the sanitary sewer line traversing the property. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the proposed 4-inch water main, initially deemed insufficient for fire protection, leading to a required upgrade to a 6-inch main. Despite these challenges, the project proceeded with consensus after addressing all engineering requirements, including stormwater management on-site. The sheriff’s department noted no concerns regarding traffic, parking, or emergency service impacts, endorsing the project’s overall plan.

Simultaneously, another major topic was addressed as the commission discussed rezoning four properties along Johnson Street south of 241st Avenue. Prompted by a city council request, this discussion aimed to rectify a zoning discrepancy discovered when a property owner applied for a building permit for a pole barn. The proposed rezoning would transition these properties from light industrial to R2 single-family and townhome residential, aligning them with the comprehensive plan and correcting inconsistencies between zoning and land use maps.

Currently, these properties house single-family homes that are legal non-conforming uses. The rezoning would render them conforming, providing property owners with increased flexibility for future developments and potentially enhancing property values. This move addresses limitations imposed by industrial zoning, which restricts renovations and expansions for residential properties. During the public hearing, a property owner expressed concerns about the impact of rezoning on their ability to build a pole barn and operate a business. Staff reassured that the R2 designation would not prevent applying for a home occupation permit within a pole building.

The commission’s recommendation to approve the rezoning request reflects a broader effort to harmonize local zoning with practical land use, facilitating more adaptive and responsive urban planning. This change also considers future infrastructure developments, with new properties required to connect to sewer and water systems as per public works department policies.

In other matters, the commission reviewed the city’s preliminary budget for 2026, noting a 3.7% increase attributed to employee union contracts, a 7% rise in the sheriff’s contract, and other small increments. The budget has been approved but remains subject to reduction before the final vote in December. Additionally, a notable decision was made regarding the city planner’s probationary period, which was extended by three months despite objections citing no prior extensions for new employees.

Furthermore, a fall town hall meeting is scheduled for November 13 at the senior center, fostering ongoing dialogue between residents and city officials.