03:09The centerpiece of the meeting was the Seven Points Regional Project on Hennepin Avenue, which proposed a 228-unit residential building as part of an amendment to an existing planned unit development. This amendment requires a conditional use permit, as the project involves changes including demolishing parts of the existing structure to make room for a new five-story residential building. This new structure is designed to feature a U-shaped layout with a courtyard and outdoor amenities, but it also entails the removal of several businesses currently housed within the existing complex.

10:56A principal city planner detailed the project’s zoning as ZM4 in the transit overlay district, emphasizing the project’s compliance with site plan review requirements, with the exception of a request for alternative compliance concerning the building walls. This sparked a debate over the implications of such compliance and the design aesthetics of the new building. Stakeholders, including the South Uptown Neighborhood Association, expressed support for the project’s scale and its provision of affordable housing units but raised concerns about certain design elements, such as window sizes and the inclusion of balconies, which they felt could enhance the visual interest and functionality of the building.

16:28Commission members and attendees also discussed the project’s parking provisions. With 731 parking spaces available at the site, only 113 would be utilized by the residential component. The dialogue included considerations for transit incentives, such as bus passes, to reduce reliance on parking and encourage the use of public transportation. Additionally, the potential inclusion of an electronic control gate was proposed as a measure to improve traffic management, subject to the applicant’s agreement.

01:35:39The issue of commercial space—or the lack thereof—dominated much of the discussion. The development plan initially included retail space, but challenges in filling such spaces led to a shift in focus towards residential amenities. This decision drew criticism from some community members who argued that retaining commercial elements is important for maintaining pedestrian activity and aligning with the comprehensive plan’s vision for a “Destination Mixed Use” area. Speakers like Sam Rockwell and Aaron Rubinstein highlighted the need for commercial activity at the street level to foster a vibrant community, while others stressed the importance of adapting to market conditions.

01:28:17Opinions among community members were divided. Some advocated for immediate action, fearing that delays could further stall the area’s revitalization, while others called for a 30-day continuance to refine the project according to community feedback. The commission weighed these perspectives, considering both the potential economic impact of immediate development and the benefits of ensuring the project meets long-term community goals.

01:30:11The meeting also addressed the building’s south-facing wall design, with suggestions for incorporating murals or architectural detailing to meet zoning requirements and enhance the public realm. The commission discussed potential conditions for murals to break up the blank wall, considering both aesthetic and regulatory factors.

Ultimately, the commission proposed approving the project with modifications, including a requirement for four murals on the south elevation to enhance visual appeal and comply with zoning mandates. This proposal aimed to balance the need for immediate development with community and regulatory considerations.