The proposed Taco Bell development was a focal point of the meeting, as commissioners examined its potential impact on the surrounding area. Situated in the M2 mixed-use Cedar Corridor District, the project involves the construction of a convenience restaurant with a drive-thru window. The planning for the Taco Bell includes a second lane to allow vehicles to exit the drive-thru without waiting in line, a design choice aimed at reducing congestion. Planning Manager Chris Jensen noted that the proposal would soon be on the city council’s agenda for final approval, with the property closing anticipated for December. He also detailed the landscape plan, which includes perimeter plantings, additional evergreen plantings, and an overstory tree as recommended by the city forester.

Traffic management emerged as a concern during the discussion. Questions were raised about the drive-thru’s ability to handle peak traffic times. One commissioner noted the lack of dedicated waiting spaces for larger orders, a standard practice at other fast-food chains like McDonald’s. There was also discussion about traffic flow in relation to an adjacent undeveloped parcel. The project representative confirmed that while planning for truck access and vehicular flow had been considered, specific interim measures were not detailed.

The commission also deliberated on the long-term implications of placing the Taco Bell in its proposed location. Concerns were voiced about whether this decision might limit future development options for the larger parcel within the Marketplace at Cedar. It was clarified that the site plan had already earmarked this lot for a quick-service restaurant with a drive-thru, aligning with the overall vision for the area, which includes plans for a financial institution and a multi-tenant building with a drive-thru. The commission ultimately moved to recommend approval of the conditional use permit for the Taco Bell, which passed with unanimous support.

Following the Taco Bell discussion, the commission turned its attention to the Ritter Meadows Amenity Building. Twin Cities Land Development submitted an application for a conditional use permit to build a private recreation facility in the RM1 medium density residential district. The project, intended to provide amenity space for the townhouse community, includes a pool, club room, and designated parking for maintenance vehicles. The proposed building, designed as a single-level structure with a basement, will cover a footprint of approximately 1,900 square feet, totaling 3,800 square feet including the basement. Exterior materials will consist of hardy board siding and stone veneer, with the building’s height compliant with city requirements.

The commission held a public hearing for the amenity building, though no attendees were present to comment. Questions from commissioners focused on the number of families expected to utilize the facility and its proximity to a nearby pond and city park. It was confirmed that the amenity building is intended solely for townhouse residents, and the pool is designed to overlook the pond and park. After clarifying these details, the commission unanimously approved the motion recommending the conditional use permit for the amenity building.