Brainerd Planning Commission Moves Forward with Data Center Ordinance Amidst Wide-Ranging Discussions

Overview: In a multifaceted Brainerd Planning Commission meeting, the adoption of a new data center ordinance marked a milestone. The ordinance, which will influence local zoning codes and was previously reviewed in March, faced no major objections from the state review. As the commission moved to approve the ordinance, members of the public like Sarah TC supported its implementation, expressing gratitude for the commission’s progress. The ordinance is set for a first reading at the city council meeting on April 21, followed by a second reading on May 5.

Brainerd Planning Commission Deliberates Year-Round Operation for Key Homeless Shelter

Overview: The Brainerd Planning Commission convened on March 19, 2025, to address community issues, most notably the proposal for the Bridge on 7th homeless shelter to transition to year-round operations. The meeting engaged various stakeholders, including community members and officials, in a thorough discussion about the impact and necessity of the shelter in the city.

Brainerd Planning Commission Reviews St. Francis Church Expansion and Street Vacation Proposal

Overview: The recent Brainerd Planning Commission meeting focused on various development projects, with the proposed expansion of St. Francis Church and the potential vacation of North 9th Street emerging as the primary topics of discussion. St. Francis Church seeks to consolidate 14 parcels into three lots to create a cohesive campus, including a new rectory and rezoning to a Public Semi-Public District (PSP) to facilitate future expansions without needing conditional use permits.

Brainerd Planning Commission Approves Expansion for Memory Care Facility Amidst Regulatory Debates

Overview: The recent Brainerd Planning Commission meeting addressed a range of topics, most notably approving an amendment to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Country Manor’s memory care facility, while also engaging in discussions on proposed ordinances for data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations. The meeting revealed community interest in balancing development with regulatory oversight, touching on issues of energy standards, water usage, and business-friendliness.

Brainerd Planning Commission Pushes Forward Building Design Standards Ordinance Amid Broader Data Center Debates

Overview: The Brainerd Planning Commission, during its recent meeting, advanced a revised building design standards ordinance and wrestled with complex proposals concerning data centers, focusing on noise control, energy consumption, and hazardous waste management. The meeting addressed contentious issues regarding local zoning compliance and the evolving impact of technology on community standards.