04-22-1998 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION JUNE 12, 1997 Carl Schroeder, property owner, indicated that the existing fast food restaurant on his property is having some difficulty. Therefore, it is unlikely that another fast food restaurant will locate in this area. Schroeder reported that he has been trying to attract tenants for the property and it has been very difficult. Knudsen pointed out that Abra proposed a very nice looking building and that proposal was denied. Dave Stopplested, realtor for the property, indicated that the Abra use was major auto repair while Tuffy's is minor auto repair. Stopplested reported that the City Planner informed him that the area was a potential site for B- 2 zoning. Benedict reported that he reviewed the minutes relative to the Abra proposal, and the discussion centered on the issue of major auto repair. Again, Tuffy's does not do major auto repair. DeLonais pointed out that the Commission recommended approval of the Abra proposal, with the stipulation that the service doors be located on the south side of the building. Benedict reported that given its choice, Tuffy's would like the doors facing Rice Street. Benedict pointed out that the building being proposed is an attractive one, made even more so by the City's architectural guidelines. However, he would discuss the door issue with Tuffy's. There was no one from the general audience present wishing to comment on this matter. Keis suggested that prior to discussing architectural issues, the Commission should first deal with the rezoning issue. Schletty indicated that he would like to see a different type of business in the area from what already exists. Schletty felt that the Tuffy business would add some diversity to the area. Schletty pointed out that the area is a retail location. Knudsen asked if there were any Tuffy Auto Centers in the Twin Cities. Benedict replied that this will be the first. Tuffy's is planning to develop 20 to 24 stores in the Twin Cities. Again, Benedict indicated that the building is an attractive one. Knudsen pointed out that given that Tuffy's is not already in the Twin Cities area, the Commission has no history on the business or example of how Tuffy's maintains its property. Page 49