Otsego council approves Otsego Waterfront Lot 1 PUD after narrow 3–2 vote

The Otsego City Council approved a planned-unit development (PUD) development-stage plan and preliminary plat for Lot 1 of the Otsego Waterfront project during its June 9 meeting, passing the measure 3–2.

Council approval allows construction of a mixed-use building with associated parking and utility easement changes; the planning commission had recommended the application unanimously after its public hearing. City staff recommended approval subject to 18 stipulations and adoption of a resolution vacating existing drainage and utility easements.

City planner Dan (staff) told the council that the developer had addressed the primary issues raised at a May 27 hearing. "The development required to have 301 parking spaces... We're providing a total of 317 parking stalls, including 121 interior spaces," Dan said, noting the applicant added parking and adjusted exterior materials to meet the zoning requirement for 65% Grade A materials by adding brick facing above the parking garage. He also said staff verified vehicle turning radii for the site's northeast fire access and recommended a condition allowing staff and emergency services to require additional north-side clearance if needed.

Developer Jesse Hartung described the project timeline and market approach and said the team made the revisions requested by staff. He told council members the project expects market-rate apartments with higher-end amenities and that rents would be competitive with current Otsego market rates.

Council discussion focused largely on building height and fire access. Councilmember Ryan said the remaining concern for him was height: "The one that remains for me is building height... it's gonna be a no for me." Another councilmember agreed with Ryan's concern about height but did not move to table the item. Dan noted the project was processed as a PUD prior to the recent adoption of an M-1 zoning district; the M-1 district would allow heights up to 75 feet on this property.

The motion to approve the preliminary plat and PUD development-stage plan, including the findings of fact and decision as presented, was made by Tina and seconded by Michelle. By council voice vote the motion passed 3–2.

The approval includes conditions addressing final fire access/staging space, required parking and materials, and minor plan clarifications to be resolved before building permits are issued. The council did not specify an exact construction start date during the meeting.

Background: the Otsego Waterfront proposal is intended to place buildings close to Quantrell Avenue, with parking behind structures and pedestrian connections in the public right-of-way. The planning commission previously reviewed the project and recommended approval on April 21.

Council action summary: PUD development-stage plan and preliminary plat for Lot 1 — approved 3–2.