Faribault Planning Commission Supports Multifamily Housing and Solar Energy Projects
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Faribault Planning Commission approved two conditional use permits, one for a multifamily housing project by the Community Action Center on First Avenue and First Street and another for a ground-mounted solar array on St. Paul Avenue. Both projects will proceed to the City Council for final approval.
The commission discussed a conditional use permit application for a multifamily housing development proposed by the Community Action Center. The project, located north of Buckham Library, involves constructing two four-unit buildings. Each building will include accessible units, contributing to the area’s residential diversity. A commission member noted the development’s potential to enhance downtown vibrancy and maintain the character of the area. After evaluating the project’s compliance with zoning requirements and its anticipated impact, the commission recommended its approval to the City Council.
The second conditional use permit application concerned a ground-mounted solar array by resident Tomas Barley on St. Paul Avenue. The proposed site, surrounded by a mix of residential and agricultural properties, was discussed for its compliance with zoning ordinances. The solar array’s height was modified to meet a 10-foot maximum height requirement, following initial plans that exceeded this limit. The commission considered the area’s open space and the potential for future residential development, ultimately determining that the project met necessary criteria. The commission also noted the benefits of allowing slightly higher structures to support pollinator-friendly plantings, prompting suggestions to revisit height limitations in future discussions.
Thomas J. Spooner
Planning Board Officials:
Chuck Ackman, Michael Salt, Samantha Green, Ed Migilio, Barton Jackson, Tina Wilson, Steve White, David Wanberg (Director), Harry Davis (Planning Manager), Leslie McGillivray-Rivas (Planner I)
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
03/03/2025
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Recording Published:
03/03/2025
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Duration:
22 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Rice County
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Towns:
Faribault
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