The commission’s decision came after a detailed presentation by planning consultant Rita Trap, who addressed the necessity of a plan amendment and rezoning from R1 to R3 shoreline planned unit development to align the project with existing regulations. Despite initial concerns about the building height exceeding the city’s maximum limits, adjustments were made to present a façade height of just over 40 feet in the front, escalating to nearly 46 feet at the rear due to sloping terrain. Trap compared the proposed heights to other developments in the area, such as Tessa and Harrison Bay Senior Living, emphasizing that despite the greater height, the lower unit count might mitigate concerns about bulk and mass.

Environmental considerations were a focal point, particularly regarding the project’s impervious surface area, which increased slightly to 50% due to the use of permeable pavers in the design. The amenity building’s patio area was reconfigured to reduce its proximity to the ordinary high water level, a critical factor in minimizing environmental disturbance. Concerns were raised about maintaining the natural state of the shore impact zone, with staff recommending that the proposed beach and retaining walls be reconsidered to comply with preservation requirements.

Traffic management was another significant topic, with County Road 110 classified as an A minor arterial designed to handle increased traffic flow. While the development is expected to raise traffic levels, engineers from Hennepin County and the City of Mound generally approved the applicant’s responses to technical feedback. The integration of the Mound and Minitrista sides was seen as beneficial for residents, although questions about the absence of right-turn lanes persisted.

The project also prompted discussions about stormwater management, with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District requiring further delineation of off-site drainage areas impacting the project site. The applicant was tasked with addressing these concerns to ensure the project’s stormwater management plan met regulatory standards. A swale was introduced to mitigate water runoff, and public works engagement was anticipated to ensure system coherence across the municipalities.

Public input was encouraged, with residents expressing concerns about traffic, environmental impact, and the project’s integration into the community. A resident from Minneapolis addressed the commission, affirming that feedback from Hennepin County had been incorporated into the design, and that efforts were underway to resolve outstanding technical questions.

The commission unanimously approved the comprehensive plan amendment and related items as a package, recognizing that disapproval of any element could jeopardize the entire project. The approval included specific conditions and findings outlined in the agenda.

In other business, the commission discussed the 2026 planning commission work rules, approving amendments that included a streamlined process for member notifications and a reduction in commission size from nine to seven members. The meeting schedule for 2026 was also adjusted to accommodate joint sessions with the city council and avoid conflicts with significant events.