During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around zoning regulations and economic development initiatives in Brainerd. Key topics included the potential for mixed-use development in the Central Commercial (CC) district, with recommendations for revisiting design standards and residential unit size requirements. Commissioners acknowledged the need for a more thorough examination of these design standards, which had previously received less attention compared to zoning setbacks.

The meeting also highlighted the Economic Development Authority's (EDA) approval of a $20,000 facade improvement grant aimed at enhancing commercial and industrial properties within the city. This grant, which offers up to $5,000 per project on a matching basis, is set to be administered by Bladex and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Additionally, the EDA proposed an expansion of the River to Rails incentive district, which would now encompass properties along Washington Street and South 6th Street. This initiative aims to alleviate building permit and plan review fees for projects valued up to $150,000, further incentivizing development in the area.

The city has also begun advertising for state affordable housing aid, having received approximately $96,000 for 2023, which is intended to support affordable housing projects.

In response to inquiries about the effectiveness of the River to Rails initiative, officials noted that it has successfully attracted businesses to the downtown area, citing specific examples of businesses that benefited from the waived fees. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the discussed initiatives, setting the stage for future developments in Brainerd's urban planning and economic growth strategies.