04-22-2025 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Planning Commission Minutes April 22, 2025 Page 6 of 7 Commissioner Booth asked about the city -owned property at King Avenue and what would happen if someone came in with a hotel proposal. Mr. Carlton stated if someone were to approach the city with a downtown development plan for the parking lot, they would bring the plan to the city council for consideration and incorporate parts of this plan to support it. He stated there was also some feedback at the open house with comments about the area known as Uptown, and creating a smoother transition between single-family homes to taller buildings, and the importance of keeping the green space in the downtown area. Commissioner Bland asked if there are cosmetics guiding this plan; what it looks like and how that is addressed. He explained he likes the "vibe" of Elk River's downtown. He went on to describe how he feels about the downtown and it being a personal experience for him and his family, with visits to the book store, coffee shop, and attending Halloween and Christmas events. He didn't want to risk not continuing with any of these plan components if there would be a loss of that vibe, turning into a commercial or a low -dollar attraction, but rather have it remain a local, small town feel where you know the name of the small business owners. Chair Beise asked how architectural requirements are put in place to create an aesthetically pleasing town. Mr. Carlton stated the architectural requirements for downtown building storefronts are outlined in the ordinance and guides any new construction. He stated an action step could include building design guidelines, but that could restrict some developers. The Planning Commission continued to discuss the downtown 'vibe' and ensure the importance of continuing it with any new development opportunities. The Planning Commission then discussed the challenges of getting people across the highway, with the railroad and MnDOT restricting those opportunities, both financially and feasibility with grades and elevations. The Planning Commission will discuss this item at next month's meeting. 6. COUNCIL LIAISON UPDATES Councilmember Wagner provided a brief update to the Planning Commission. 7. MOTION TO ADJOURN REGULAR MEETING Moved by Commissioner Johnson and seconded by Commissioner Rydberg to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried 6-0. The meeting adjourned at 8:02 P.M. Minutes prepared by Jennifer Green.