Plan commission approves conditional use for Butcher’s Word at 1320 E. Eighth St., with site improvements required

The Plan Commission approved a conditional use permit and site/landscaping/architectural review on July 23 for a new butcher shop called The Butcher’s Word at approximately 1320 E. Eighth St., with conditions to address exterior maintenance, refuse screening, bicycle parking and potential future patio seating.

Planner Jack (presenter) said the site is in a C‑3 commercial zoning district and food production requires a conditional use permit. The applicant, proprietor Bill Byers, told commissioners the business will combine a retail butcher counter with walk‑in coolers/freezers, a cut/processing area and an event/market space intended for cooking classes and presentations by regional farmers. Jack recommended approval to the commission contingent on common council’s sign‑off for the conditional use and on a revised site landscaping plan that shows a front entry improvement, a four‑sided refuse enclosure, an outdoor bicycle rack location, exterior maintenance/repair of the building façade and a scope of work for signage and lighting.

Commissioners discussed a large existing pole sign on the property that predates the current code. Byers said he plans to use illuminated awning signage at his storefront and does not want the expense of repairing the tall pole sign; he said he was open to staff and the property owner discussing the future of the pole sign. Jack said administrative staff would follow up with the landlord and economic development staff on options for the pole sign and signage compliance.

The commission’s vote approved the conditional use and the architectural/site review subject to the standard conditions noted in the staff report. The item will go to common council for final action on the conditional use permit as required by code.