The spotlight of the meeting was on the potential development of the Malchesy Peelock property, situated at the southwest intersection of 195th Street and Flagstaff Avenue. This parcel, owned by Douglas and Janelle Malchesky, is strategically located near the high school and adjacent to the city’s western border. The commission reviewed a concept plan that presented a mix of lot sizes across seven parcels owned by the Malchesy and Peelock families, incorporating a section of the adjacent Donley property. This plan reflects a trend towards smaller lot sizes, diverging from the traditional 10,000 square foot lots, which may require a planned unit development approach to align with market demands.

The zoning of the property aligns with its future land use designations, with the northern half earmarked as R3 (medium density residential) and the southern half as low medium density residential. However, some proposed lot sizes do not meet the current zoning code’s minimum standards. The commission underscored the need for a plan amendment as part of the 2050 plan update, mandated by the Metropolitan Council, to address these discrepancies.

Traffic concerns emerged as a significant topic during the discussions. Commissioner Krista Tesky highlighted the growing traffic on 195th Street, exacerbated by increasing development in the surrounding areas, including Lakeville. The commission acknowledged the necessity of a corridor study by the county to evaluate traffic patterns and consider introducing another east-west road to Cedar Avenue. This study would be crucial in understanding the impact of new developments on local roads and ensuring a smooth traffic flow.

The meeting also touched on the relationship between the proposed development and existing residential structures off Flagstaff Avenue. Additionally, the commission discussed the need to extend utility access to the site, with existing trunk lines making it feasible for the city to service the area. The presence of the Metropolitan interceptor, built for the high school, on the southern end of the site, was noted as a facilitating factor for development.

Utility services were another focal point of the meeting, with concerns raised about whether the city could adequately support new developments without compromising existing service capabilities. This was particularly pertinent in light of a recent tax increase and the potential addition of more residential units. The commission emphasized the importance of thorough evaluation during the amendment process to ensure balanced utility service across all areas.

Sidewalks and trails were discussed as essential components of new developments, particularly to ensure safe passage for children traveling to nearby schools. The planning process mandates sidewalks on at least one side of every street, with trails typically incorporated along major corridors, as seen in previous developments like Vermillion River and Vermillion Commons. Although there is no definitive plan for sidewalks along Flagstaff at this time, these considerations will be integrated into future development plans.

The timing of amendments in relation to the upcoming comprehensive plan for 2050 was debated. A proposition was made to delay amendments until the comprehensive plan process begins, allowing for a more holistic approach to address land use and development concerns. The consensus favored waiting for the comprehensive plan to provide a broader perspective on future growth.

The zoning map was referenced during discussions about potential commercial development along busy roads. The commission was urged to consider introducing commercial zones at the front of developments to buffer residential areas, reflecting practices in other communities. Revisiting a previously drafted future land use plan, which proposed mixed-use commercial and residential development on certain parcels, was suggested as a means to inform future planning and avoid past oversights.

The meeting concluded with logistical announcements regarding upcoming meeting dates for 2026. The session ended with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and unanimously approved, and participants exchanged well-wishes for a safe holiday season.