The meeting’s most issue involved a request to amend the conditional use permit for a vehicle sales lot located on Third Avenue Southwest. The applicant sought to increase the number of vehicles allowed on the lot from the previously permitted 10 to as many as 24. This increase was proposed to accommodate business needs and improve visibility for potential customers. The council examined concerns about the lot’s appearance, especially the potential for a cluttered and unkempt look due to high inventory periods. The discussions also highlighted safety concerns related to the visibility of oncoming traffic, as raised by the fire department.

The applicant explained that business operations had been hindered by the existing restrictions, leading to a decline in sales and visibility. In response to these challenges, the applicant proposed a compromise of allowing up to 20 vehicles on the lot, excluding customer vehicles from the count. The council deliberated on the implications of this adjustment, balancing the need to support local businesses with the community’s aesthetic and safety concerns. Staff recommendations included implementing screening requirements and ensuring all vehicles were operable and parked on hard surfaces. After thorough consideration, the council approved the motion to permit 20 vehicles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an orderly appearance and safety compliance.

Another topic during the meeting was the proposed ordinance regarding the keeping of chickens within city limits. The ordinance aimed to address fire safety and public health concerns associated with urban chicken coops. The council discussed the potential risks posed by electrical devices and heating lamps commonly used in coops, particularly during winter months. The fire department’s input underscored the importance of regulations to prevent fire hazards, with suggestions to prohibit heat lamps and require non-combustible roofing materials.

The council also considered setback requirements for chicken coops, proposing a minimum distance of 30 feet from residential structures and 5 feet from property lines to minimize conflicts with neighbors. The discussions touched on liability issues, recommending enhanced homeowners insurance coverage for structures housing chickens. The council acknowledged the challenges of enforcing such regulations.

The ordinance further proposed an application process for chicken coop permits, requiring applicants to provide personal details, the number of chickens, and a certified survey showing coop location and setbacks. The council debated the inclusion of educational resources on chicken care in the application process. The proposed regulations capped the number of chickens at six per household and established a renewal fee of $50 with a ten-year permit fee of $300.