Planning panel backs rezoning and restoration plan for Cedarhurst Mansion; applicant proposes event venue and atrium addition

The Cottage Grove Planning Commission voted 5-0 on July 28 to recommend City Council approval of zoning amendments, historic conditional-use permits (HCUP) and a site plan allowing restoration and reuse of the Cedarhurst Mansion at 70 Eighth Street as an events venue. The applicant, Bella Gala, proposes an addition described as an atrium, utility connections to city sewer and water, restored gardens and a mix of paved and reinforced-grass parking.

Staff planner Emily (last name not provided) told the commission the project seeks to align the mansion parcel with the city's 2040 comprehensive-plan guidance (mixed use) and to rezone the adjacent gardener's cottage parcel to R-3 (single-family residential) while placing both parcels on the local historic register and authorizing joint use under an HCUP.

The applicant's representative, JJ Malitzky of Bella Gala, described plans to rehabilitate interior and exterior features, preserve the rose garden and great lawn, install an atrium addition of…