The meeting’s central focus was the public hearing on the proposed zoning change for Outlot A Cedar Woodlands Third. Bill Tonson of WC Consulting Firm, representing Science Southwest, presented the application to rezone a part of the property to R2, aligning with the existing designations. The change is intended to create a buffer between commercial properties to the west and residential areas. Tonson explained that the proposal aligns with the area’s current zoning patterns and shared that a neighborhood meeting had been conducted to inform residents. If approved, the next steps would involve detailed site development, grading and drainage plans, and a traffic assessment.

The hearing also provided a platform for community members to express their views. Tom Alto, representing a local resident, shared his positive interactions with Dragon, a developer involved with a nearby project in Rochester. Alto noted Dragon’s transparency and promptness in addressing construction-related runoff issues, fostering a cooperative relationship with the neighborhood.

Following these testimonies, a staff member summarized the rezoning request, emphasizing that the change would not alter the land use pattern. The staff recommended approval, highlighting the straightforward nature of the change on zoning maps. The commission approved the motion to recommend the zoning change to the city council, with no further discussion.

In new business, the commission addressed an application for a future public hearing. An applicant expressed frustration over delays caused by email miscommunications, leading to confusion about meeting notifications. The chair assured the applicant of the completion and submission of their application for city review and pledged to address any communication issues to expedite the process.

The meeting also touched on several ongoing matters. The WSBR project update included a comprehensive rewrite of the zoning ordinance, nearing completion with a focus on legal compliance and community needs. The commission plans to allow ample time for public review of the updated code before presenting it to the city council.

Other routine activities included addressing zoning applications for maintenance and construction requests, such as shed replacements and heating system installations. The commission noted an increase in roof repair applications following a recent hailstorm, with significant damage reported on the east side of a highway. Additionally, two companies have obtained peddlers permits for door-to-door solicitations, prompting the sheriff’s office to inform citizens.

The commission also discussed a driveway request pending since February, highlighting a lack of communication from applicants. With an open commission position still vacant, plans were made to use social media for outreach. Officer elections were deferred until the commission is fully staffed.

Before adjourning, a memo about upcoming budget meetings was addressed. The city council will hold budget planning workshops, focusing on growth goals and mission statements. The commission may need to prepare presentations for the 2026 budget. There was a suggestion to consider requests for proposals for zoning support services to enhance transparency and prioritize taxpayer interests, given that the last RFP occurred in 2006. The parks department’s survey, aiming to gather community input for grant funding opportunities, was also mentioned.