The Enclave Helmo Station development, a major project proposal, includes a 280-unit apartment building, a 112-unit townhome development, and a public park spanning 2.83 acres. During the meeting, Max, presumably representing the planning staff, presented the site plan, emphasizing the importance of walkability and pedestrian access. However, the proposal faced scrutiny over several compliance issues. The developer was tasked with addressing deviations from zoning ordinances, such as the requirement for building materials to consist of at least 70% class one materials.

The commission examined the visual plans for the new townhomes and apartments, which revealed discrepancies in material classifications. Although the developer claimed compliance with class one materials for the apartment building, city staff highlighted that certain materials like colored concrete masonry did not meet the city’s class one criteria. The planning team advised the developer to provide additional manufacturer information to substantiate the quality of the materials proposed. A common resolution suggested was focusing class one materials on the ground floor and class two materials on upper floors, a strategy seen in other developments.

Further discussion centered on public access and safety concerns related to the sidewalk and landscaping plans. The developer was urged to update townhome designs to ensure entrances faced the street, particularly along Fourth Street, and address the distance of sidewalks from the buildings, which exceeded the 10-foot maximum allowed by the city. There’s an ongoing need to ensure that the development integrates sidewalks without compromising safety, particularly where a 30-foot landscape buffer is proposed between new buildings and adjacent properties.

The commission also considered the proposed public park, which was larger than initially planned. Adjustments were suggested to enhance its usability and aesthetics, including resizing a pond feature and creating a central gathering space. Initial plans for a large parking lot were revised after city staff recommended a smaller alternative, better suited to the park’s scale.

In a move to balance the need for residential aesthetics and zoning requirements, the commission proposed several conditions for approval. These included amending the Helmo Station PUD to accommodate deviations in land use, building materials, and parking. The developer must also resolve issues related to trash handling, utility screening, and noise variances due to the site’s proximity to Interstate 94.

Despite the complexities, the commission ultimately approved the PUD amendment, preliminary plat, and site plan, although not without dissent among commissioners. The approval was contingent on the developer addressing the outlined conditions, including material compliance and public easement concerns.

In other business, the commission also approved a conditional use permit for Kenneth Kroger’s oversized garage on Stillwater Boulevard. The proposed 1,200-square-foot garage met all setback and height regulations, and no public objections were recorded during the hearing.