In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed a proposed amendment to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) aimed at enhancing the commercial potential of a property located along Military Avenue. The proposal seeks to address existing parking and traffic flow issues while allowing for future commercial expansion.

Key points of discussion included the necessity of maintaining a minimum drive length of 22 feet for two-way traffic, which would accommodate a 5-foot barrier and still provide adequate drivable space. City staff emphasized the importance of maximizing the area available for potential commercial users, noting that reducing the available space could hinder redevelopment opportunities.

The property in question, which has been described as \"over-parked,\" currently features a depth of 225 feet. However, officials suggested that a depth of 200 feet would still be feasible for future developments, drawing comparisons to newer developments in the area that effectively utilize space for both parking and building layouts.

Elder Melinda Eck expressed support for the amendment, highlighting the need for aesthetic improvements to the property while balancing the financial implications for the current owners. She noted that the owners are eager to fully develop the site but require a manageable investment to enhance its appearance in the interim.

Concerns were raised regarding the permanence of the industrial use currently allowed on the property. Some officials advocated for a temporary designation to encourage future commercial development, while others argued for a more permanent solution to provide stability for current operations. Ultimately, a compromise was reached, with a motion to approve the PUD amendment including a five-year sunset clause on the industrial use, allowing for periodic reassessment of the property's development potential.

The proposal will now move forward to the city council for final approval, with hopes that the changes will stimulate interest from potential commercial tenants and improve the overall look and functionality of the area.