Planning commission recommends outdoor sales lot for Midwest Building and Equipment with paved-surface condition

Cannon Falls Planning Commission members voted to recommend that the City Council approve a conditional use permit for Midwest Building and Equipment to operate an outdoor sales lot at the Cannon Falls Mall, with a condition that display sheds be parked only on paved surfaces.

The commission heard a presentation that the business would sell custom-built sheds and would store sample units in the southwest corner of the mall property. The property is in the city’s B2 commercial zone, and the applicant must secure a conditional use permit under city code (section 152-648, I) to operate an outdoor sales lot in that zone.

Why it matters: Commissioners focused on the public-facing nature of the display area and whether the location would be usable year-round. Several commissioners and residents raised concerns about the display area being on grass, creating muddy walking conditions for customers and potential damage to pavement during deliveries. Staff and the applicant described the arrangement as primarily a sales lot and promotional location rather than a permanent retail office on site.

Discussion details: The applicant or property owner indicated the mall owner signed or would sign a lease for the lot for about one to two years. Commissioners discussed whether the sheds would only be stored there, or whether sales would be completed from that site; staff said sales activity would fall under “outdoor sales lot” rules and that customers would be able to view inventory at the mall location.

Several commissioners cited the code requirement that off-street sales and parking areas be paved (I-4 in the ordinance language discussed at the meeting) and proposed adding a condition to the recommendation. Commissioners debated whether to require the units be moved to existing paved areas on the property or to require the owner to pave the display area. One commissioner noted the mall owner could place units on the south side of the property where pavement exists.

Action taken: Planning Commission Resolution 2025-1 (recommend in favor with conditions) was moved by Commissioner Douglas and seconded by Commissioner Knotts. The motion included the added condition that the sheds be parked only on paved surfaces. The commission carried the motion by voice vote and will forward the recommendation and its conditions to the City Council for final action.

What was not decided: The City Council will consider the formal permit and any specific paving or maintenance requirements when it reviews the commission’s recommendation. The commission did not set a detailed paving plan, specific timelines for improvements, or a funding mechanism; those items were not specified in the record and would be handled at later review stages if the council approves the permit.

Ending: Staff indicated the commission packet included two draft resolutions (one recommending approval, one recommending denial) and that a revised resolution reflecting the paving condition would be provided for the council. No additional public testimony was recorded on this item during the second call for input.