One notable issue discussed was the proposed multifamily housing project at 6501 and Penn Avenue. The development, aiming to provide 42 affordable housing units, was met with mixed reactions from residents and city planners. The project is designed to serve low-income families, with affordability levels set between 30% and 60% of the area’s median income. The five-story building will include a mix of one to four-bedroom units, an enclosed parking garage, and communal facilities.

Johnny Opara, representing the developers, emphasized the project’s potential to revitalize underutilized land and provide high-quality housing. He stated, “Our vision is to deliver 42 homes of affordable housing in this community,” highlighting the extensive engagement with city officials and stakeholders. The development promises amenities like an indoor tot lot and on-site management, with a projected investment of approximately $24 million.

Despite the project’s merits, community members expressed concerns about its impact on local traffic and pedestrian safety. Michael Gormley, a resident, voiced worries over insufficient on-site parking, which he feared would exacerbate existing congestion and endanger pedestrians. He highlighted the narrow streets and lack of sidewalks as significant safety hazards, particularly during rush hours.

John Peterson, another resident, echoed these concerns, pointing to the bottleneck created by the narrowing of Penn Avenue. He called for a comprehensive traffic study to assess the potential impact of the new development, stressing the importance of considering local traffic and safety in urban planning.

In response, the developers assured that the project meets all zoning requirements, including parking minimums. The proposal includes more parking spaces than units, surpassing the district’s 1.25 spaces per unit requirement. The architect, Eric Bjor, confirmed plans to extend sidewalks on 65th Street and incorporate indoor bike parking, promoting pedestrian and cyclist safety.

City officials acknowledged the community’s concerns, with one commissioner suggesting the potential implementation of parking restrictions to alleviate congestion. The city also has a traffic control committee available to address residents’ issues regarding traffic volume and speed. Despite these assurances, community members continued to urge a thorough evaluation to ensure the development does not compromise neighborhood safety and livability.

Another agenda item involved the disposition of a parcel by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority. The city plans to sell an irregularly shaped remnant land known as Outlaw A Wexler’s Second Edition to Professional Dental Properties LLC, the adjacent property owner. The land has served as a parking area for the dental office since 2008 and is deemed non-developable due to its shape and setback requirements. The resolution to sell the parcel passed without opposition.

The meeting also included updates from various city commissions. The Community Services Advisory Commission reported progress on the splash pad project and Wood Lake’s groundbreaking. The Transportation Committee discussed feedback to Metro Transit on bus service restructuring and the ongoing Nicollet Avenue reconstruction project. The Sustainability Commission highlighted plans to update the climate action plan, focusing on solar panel installations and community outreach on environmental initiatives.

City planners announced a transition to new agenda software and upcoming community events, including a state of the community event and a work session related to the Legion Vet Park site. A short-term rentals ordinance was also discussed, with changes to the minimum stay requirement for non-owner-occupied rentals.