The proposed development at 4109 and Sheridan Avenue South drew attention during the meeting, as it involves the demolition of an existing duplex to make way for a three-story building with 13 dwelling units. The project requires a conditional use permit to increase the building’s height beyond the standard limit set by the Shoreland Overlay District. The applicant, represented by Josh Seagull of JLS Design Build, emphasized the project’s design intent, which aims to integrate with the Linden Hills neighborhood by using materials like brick and wood and setting the building back from the street. However, residents expressed concerns that the development would disrupt the area’s character and exacerbate existing traffic and parking issues.

Numerous community members spoke against the project, citing a range of issues, from the lack of affordable housing to traffic congestion and environmental impacts. Concerns about the shadowing effect of the building and its potential to obstruct solar panels were also raised. A resident, Jerome Ritter, argued that granting the conditional use permit would set a precedent for future zoning decisions, while others like Simon Cohen criticized the developer’s communication efforts.

The commission faced a challenging decision, weighing the need for increased residential density against the community’s concerns. During the deliberation, commissioners discussed the Shoreland Overlay District’s role in regulating building height and the potential for increased impervious surfaces to affect bird migration. Ultimately, the commission voted four to three in favor of the conditional use permit, acknowledging the project’s alignment with the city’s 2040 Plan, which encourages higher density near transit corridors and local amenities.

In another significant agenda item, the commission explored proposed changes to Minneapolis’s sign regulations, which include adjustments to both on-premises and off-premises signs. The revisions aim to provide businesses with greater flexibility regarding sign placement and size, allowing for new sign types like light projections and portable sandwich board signs.

Public feedback on the sign regulation changes was mixed. Some stakeholders, such as Dana Frank, expressed concerns about a moratorium on converting existing billboards from static to digital formats, fearing it could hinder business operations. Others, including Keith Parker from the Walker Arts Center, supported the changes, citing the benefits of digital signage for promoting cultural programming.

A motion to forward the proposal with a one-year extension following the legislative session in 2026 was approved, providing a clearer timeline for the temporary pause on new billboards.