Plan Commission approves exterior-materials variance for industrial addition at 3255 Fernau Court

The Plan Commission voted 8-0 June 3 to approve a design standard variance for a 7,000-square-foot rear addition at 3255 Fernau Court, allowing the addition to be finished in ribbed metal panels to match the existing industrial building.

Staff reported the existing building is an 11,000-square-foot industrial structure occupied by Monroe Equipment (constructed in 2017) in a heavy-industrial zoning district; the applicant proposes a 7,000-square-foot rear addition. City industrial design standards require that building additions exceeding 50% of the existing floor area include at least 15% Class 1 or Class 2 materials on all facades. The applicant requested a variance for the rear and side facades, arguing the addition should match the existing ribbed metal panels for a cohesive appearance.

Staff recommended approval, finding the addition would be minimally visible from public rights of way, would match the existing building materials and would be appropriate in an industrial district. Derek Simonis of Pinto Construction, speaking for the applicant, said matching the original materials would keep the building cohesive and avoid a "chopped together" appearance.

Commissioners asked how staff would ensure the approved materials are used; staff said final building elevations will be verified during site plan review. Commissioner Buell supported the variance as a proper use of the design-standards exception. The motion to adopt the findings and recommendations in the staff report passed by roll call vote 8-0.