Planning commission approves Christian Brothers Automotive plan and 30‑year special use permit

The Planning Commission recommended approval April 24 for a preliminary development plan and a 30‑year special use permit for Christian Brothers Automotive at 110 Southwest Raintree Plaza Drive.

Applicant Billy Green Jr. described the proposed operation as a 5,962‑square‑foot, 10‑bay major automotive repair facility that “does automotive repair … we don't do any body work,” and said the chain limits loud activities and operates with interior storage for used oil tanks and indoor storage of vehicles if necessary. Civil engineer Zia Takush and city planner Ian Treffren told the commission the project meets the CP‑2 zoning and M‑150 Corridor Overlay standards for materials and facade articulation.

One resident, Courtney Wolgamuth of Raintree Lake, testified in opposition, citing concerns about noise, traffic and property values and noting three auto‑repair facilities already within about a half‑mile of the site. Staff said it had received one phone call in opposition and that the project met applicable standards. Treffren also reminded commissioners that the city code requires garage doors be closed on automotive repair facilities within 300 feet of residential districts; he noted that the applicant has committed to that operating practice.

The commission voted to recommend approval of the preliminary development plan (motion by Commissioner Chip Tusinski) by roll call; the recommendation then advanced the special use permit application. The applicant had asked for a 35‑year SUP; staff recommended 30 years and the applicant accepted the shorter term. An amendment by a commissioner to reduce the SUP to 20 years failed on a 2–5 vote. The main motion to recommend the 30‑year SUP then passed 5–2 (yes: Frazier, Trafton, Arth, Grineau, Tusinski; no: Lovelace, Bembrock).

Conditions listed by staff include full screening of rooftop equipment, compliance with M‑150 overlay architectural standards, final landscaping and stormwater requirements, and enforcement of the code requirement to keep service doors closed where the building is within 300 feet of residential zoning.

The commission record shows the site is roughly 53,000 square feet; staff noted the proposed building and circulation have been reviewed for fire access, hydrant location and detention. With the commission recommendation, the application will advance to council for final action and ordinance drafting that will include the SUP duration and specific conditions.