The City of Sparks Planning Commission convened on September 18, 2025, to discuss a significant request for a conditional use permit aimed at constructing and operating a childcare facility and medical office on a 1.4-acre site located at the southwest corner of Sullivan Lane and Kapurra Way. This site, which consists of two parcels, is situated north of the Audi project and southwest of Risley Elementary School.

The meeting began with a presentation detailing the need for a conditional use permit, as required by the Sparks Municipal Code for such facilities in the MF 5 zoning district. The northern parcel is designated as MF 5, while the southern parcel is classified as C 2. The existing structures on these parcels have been utilized for commercial purposes since their development in the 1970s.

Commissioner Elkins disclosed a potential conflict of interest due to past financial contributions to the Life Change Center, the applicant for the permit. To maintain transparency, he recused himself from the discussion and voting on this item.

The Life Change Center, which has operated a medical office in the smaller southern building since 2009, plans to expand its services by renovating the northern building to include both medical and professional offices, as well as the new childcare facility. The proposed childcare facility will be open to the public, and site improvements are planned to enhance functionality between the two parcels.

Staff analysis focused on three main components: access and parking, landscaping, and architecture. The proposal includes two entrance driveways for customer access and one exit driveway, with a total of 44 parking spaces provided—five more than the 39 required by code, including three ADA-compliant spaces. The landscaping plan meets the minimum requirements, with 39 trees proposed for the site.

Architectural renovations for the northern building include expanding openings for natural light and introducing a combination of materials such as fiber cement cladding and wood-finished panels. The design also features steel pergolas for shading and a fenced outdoor play area for the childcare facility.

Overall, the staff expressed confidence that the proposed architecture exceeds the requirements of the MF 5 zoning district. The commission's discussions highlighted the importance of integrating the new facility into the existing community while ensuring compliance with municipal codes. Further steps will follow as the commission continues to evaluate the proposal.