02:06The public hearing on the comprehensive plan amendment drew particular attention. The area affected by this amendment includes several parcels along Geneva Avenue, Upper 51st Street, and Highway 36 North, totaling approximately 8.5 acres. The primary objective of the amendment is to transition these lands from commercial to mixed-use designations, paving the way for a more integrated community infrastructure. This change is consistent with the goals outlined in the Glen Brook small area plan, which was adopted in 2023, advocating for redevelopment that supports a mix of residential and commercial uses.

40:30The commission’s staff underscored the importance of this amendment in fostering future development opportunities, particularly highlighting a vacant lot on Highway 36 Boulevard North that has piqued the interest of developers. The proposed project for this site involves the construction of live-work condominium units, which aligns with the city’s vision of creating vibrant, mixed-use communities. The amendment does not automatically rezone properties; property owners would have to initiate such changes, maintaining some level of autonomy in the process.

No public opposition was recorded during the hearing, simplifying the commission’s decision to recommend the amendment’s approval to the city council, which is scheduled to consider it further on July 8. The Metropolitan Council will also need to grant formal approval. Prior outreach efforts with governmental agencies, including Washington County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation, have not encountered any resistance.

13:32Following this significant agenda item, the meeting progressed to discuss extensive updates to the city’s zoning and subdivision codes. These updates result from a comprehensive 15-month review process, undertaken with the consulting firm HKGI. The updates include reducing the number of zoning districts from 14 to 10, revising purpose statements, and streamlining allowed uses and dimensional standards.

18:33One of the notable discussions centered around the definition and regulation of courtyard cottages, described as smaller, detached homes clustered together, offering higher-density, low-maintenance housing options targeted primarily at seniors but suitable for all age groups. The commission also examined changes to dimensional standards, addressing lot sizes, setbacks, and building heights, while confirming that gravel surfaces are considered impervious under current regulations.

22:50The zoning code amendments also touched on building material flexibility, particularly for multi-unit residential buildings. New provisions allow for averaging material percentages across facades, providing design flexibility. Parking requirements were refined, with a standardized requirement of 1.5 spaces per unit for multi-unit residential properties and an adjustment in commercial parking from one space per 200 square feet to one per 400 square feet, reflecting regional practices.

26:33Landscaping standards were revisited, with adjustments in tree and shrub requirements to improve plant survival rates and simplify replacement regulations for significant tree removals. Signage regulations were updated to comply with federal court rulings, focusing on size and placement rather than content, and temporary signage rules were relaxed, extending display periods for special events.

32:24The commission also reviewed subdivision regulations, confirming the planning commission’s role in holding public hearings for preliminary plat applications. Updates included clarifying park dedication requirements, aligning them with state statutes, and enhancing the clarity of cash or land dedication options for developers.