Madras, Ore. — The Madras Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit Wednesday allowing Madras Marine to store boats and recreational vehicles outdoors at 1435 U.S. Highway 97, provided the applicant meets conditions from city staff and Jefferson County Fire and EMS.

Madras Marine sought a conditional use permit (file CU25‑1) because outdoor storage is a conditional use in the property’s Mixed Use Employment (MUE) zoning. Planning staff told the commission the primary business use — boat sales and maintenance — is permitted in MUE, but storing boats and RVs outdoors requires the permit. Staff reported the application was submitted Jan. 27, notices were mailed to adjacent property owners and agencies on Feb. 12, and the hearing was published in the Madras Pioneer on Feb. 19.

Applicant representatives David Walker and Jennifer Walker described the proposed storage as a “concierge” model: customers would drop off boats or RVs and Madras Marine employees would park and secure vehicles on-site; the company said the storage is primarily for winter months and not open-access. The applicant told the commission most winterized boats are wrapped and said they would comply with fire-department access requirements and gate/lock standards.

Staff presented conditions of approval that include: maintaining required access around the site for emergency vehicles, installing screening slats in the existing perimeter fence, complying with outdoor lighting and noise standards, and obtaining/maintaining a city business license. Jefferson County Fire and EMS asked that access be maintained around the entire site and requested notification of gate lock types so emergency responders can gain entry. The applicant agreed to comply with the identified standards.

No members of the public offered testimony in opposition or in support at the hearing. After deliberation, Commissioner Eder moved to approve CU25‑1; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote.

Planning staff noted there are no new structures proposed for the site and that the approval is conditioned on meeting the fire department’s access standards and the screening and operational limits described in the record. The commission closed the record and issued the decision at the meeting; staff said the matter will proceed to any required post‑decision administrative steps.