The property owner, Brickmore, represented by Lauren Robinson, sought approval for the new store after the previous tenant left the building vacant for over a year. This vacancy led to the expiration of the original conditional use permit, necessitating a new application. Robinson detailed proposed enhancements, including reducing parking, increasing landscaping, adding electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, installing bike racks, and constructing a pedestrian pathway from a nearby transit stop. These upgrades are intended to improve both the building’s appearance and site circulation.

The budget for the project has increased from an initial $3.7 million to approximately $4.2 million due to additional compliance measures identified during discussions with city staff. A focus was on creating a rational drive pattern to access the grocery store and landscaping at entry points. Robinson also addressed the EV charging stations, noting that while provisions for one Level 2 or Level 3 charger and 13 EV-ready spaces were included, Brickmore would rely on third-party providers for the installation of the charging infrastructure.

A notable point of contention was the architectural recommendations from the staff report, which suggested extending awnings along the entire length of the building. Robinson objected to this requirement, citing cost concerns, and instead proposed retaining the existing canopy while integrating new design elements. The lease terms for the grocery store were confirmed to be a base term of 10 years with options for renewal.

During the public hearing, resident Michael Gormley inquired about the interior remodeling plans, given the building’s vacancy status. Planner Crosby clarified that the new grocer would be responsible for bringing the interior up to current code, with a substantial portion of the projected budget allocated for these improvements. The public hearing concluded without significant opposition, and most inquiries focused on understanding the new tenant and the scope of the proposed changes.

Further discussions centered on the proposed EV charging station requirements. Crosby noted that if the grocery store could not fulfill these requirements, they might need to submit a letter of credit for incomplete items and could later request a variance if ongoing challenges persisted. The conversation highlighted the enthusiasm for the new grocery store and the logistical challenges tied to compliance and collaboration with neighboring properties.

The commission also discussed a proposed development involving a variance related to architectural elements and a metal awning. Staff raised concerns about aesthetics and functionality, noting the importance of breaking up the long expanse of the blank wall visible from 65th Street. There was a proposal to reuse the existing awning, which led to discussions about the language of the conditions related to the awning. Some commissioners supported revising the condition to allow for alterations, while others emphasized the significant time and effort put into planning for the site. This led to a motion to approve the proposed conditional use permit and development plan, which passed without opposition.

The meeting then shifted to the capital improvement budget, presented by Finance Director Kumud Varma. The 2025 budget totals $31.9 million, with nearly 64% allocated for recreation and open space. Significant projects include $4.2 million for Veterans Park complex and $16 million for the Woodlake Nature Center project, funded through federal and state grants. Other projects mentioned include pavement management and traffic signal replacements. There was acknowledgment of ongoing challenges in addressing capital needs, and the presentation detailed funding sources and the projected $75 million capital improvement plan for 2026 to 2029.

A commissioner sought clarification regarding specific amounts allocated for park improvements, questioning whether these figures were predicated on the approval of a ballot question regarding local sales tax. Varma confirmed that the budgeted amounts assumed the local sales tax would be approved by voters. There were also questions about a $200,000 allocation for the Pan Avenue reconstruction project, which prompted a request for additional details from the project manager.

The meeting concluded with a review of previous meetings and reports from various advisory groups. The Transportation Commission reported on a pilot project aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety near Centennial Elementary School. The City Planner noted that a conditional use permit and variance for Stall One Auto had been approved by the city council. A question was raised regarding parking changes in zoning requirements, which had been updated to align minimums across all zoning districts.