The commission’s decision to approve the Kenrick Corner Second Edition development was a focal point of the meeting. The proposal, submitted by Mezen Brink Construction and Engineering, involves the construction of a 9,600 square-foot multi-tenant retail space. Jennifer Has Camp from Camp Real Estate and Development provided a detailed overview of the project, which plans to use predominantly black brick to align with the character of existing commercial developments in the area. The structure will serve two tenants, each with separate parking lots, but will allow for overflow parking between them.

A key aspect of the proposal involved the vacation of a public drainage and utility easement, which required careful consideration by the commission. The staff presentation confirmed that the area is primarily zoned C3 commercial, with medium-density townhomes situated to the north. The preliminary plat process was described as straightforward, involving the conversion of an outlaw into a single lot. The site plan included landscaping to enhance the buffer between the new development and the neighboring townhomes.

Before the approval, concerns were raised about the absence of a designated trash enclosure, a compliance issue needing resolution. The staff recommended approval of the preliminary plat and easement vacation with six stipulations outlined in a December 13, 2024, report. During the public hearing, questions arose regarding potential tenants for the space, but it was clarified that while leases had not yet been signed, discussions were ongoing and occupancy is anticipated once construction is complete. The commission unanimously approved the preliminary plat and easement vacation, and it will now proceed to the City Council for consideration on January 21st.

In addition to development approvals, the meeting addressed proposed amendments to Title 11 zoning of the city code, focusing on adjustments needed to align with current market demands and conditions. One proposal included changes to the parking ordinance, introducing a definition for commercial recreation facilities to be permitted in specific industrial districts. This change reflects ongoing inquiries about potential developments in these areas. Adjustments to parking requirements for various uses were made following research, planning consultant input, and market analysis.

Significant discussion centered on amendments to accommodate new parks and recreational facilities in Lakeville. With the development of the Grand Prairie Park, requests were made for increased signage to aid navigation and highlight sponsorship visibility. Proposals included adding freestanding signage for Grand Prairie Park and additional wall signage for the new pavilion at H Arena. A notable exception was proposed for a second monument sign at Grand Prairie Park on Hamburg Avenue, despite it not meeting current criteria of being on a major collector or arterial street. The exception was argued based on the unique needs of community parks for enhanced signage.

The commission also debated amendments related to the M2 mixed-use Cedar Corridor District, where a current ordinance discrepancy requires a minimum area of 1,675 square feet per multifamily housing unit. A revision to reduce this requirement to 1,100 square feet per unit was proposed to better align with the comprehensive plan.

In the I1 light industrial district, the commission considered allowing limited outdoor storage for auto repair uses, which is currently restricted to indoor storage. The proposed amendment includes conditions such as limiting visibility from principal arterial roads and capping storage to 20% or 10,000 square feet of the lot area, with required screening.