Highland council approves limited precious‑metals, crypto consulting use in Ridgeview

Highland City Council voted 5–0 on Sept. 2 to allow a business called GoldSilverCrypto to operate in the Ridgeview Planned Development commercial area, subject to a restriction that the operation not use retail showcases or storefront displays typically associated with pawnshops.

Council members heard staff and the applicant describe the proposed business as an appointment‑only office that consults with customers and routes physical bullion through wholesale channels rather than holding significant inventory onsite. The council held a public hearing before taking the vote.

The Planning/Community Development presentation said the Ridgeview Commercial District permits retail sales of new merchandise, collectible sales and financial institutions but explicitly prohibits pawn and thrift shops; the question for council was whether the applicant’s model is more analogous to allowed retail/financial uses or to a prohibited pawnshop. Rob Patterson, planning staff, told the council the applicant’s description and proposed operating restrictions alleviated staff concerns and recommended approval with conditions.

Applicant Ryan Best described the business as an office by appointment where customers consult on gold, silver or crypto, and where Best would generally not store bullion onsite overnight or maintain retail showcases. He said transactions often occur with certified checks at a bank or by order and delivery via his wholesale network, and that the business has two part‑time employees. Chief Williams said he had no objection if product would not be stored at the site overnight.

At the council meeting, Councilmember Kim moved to approve the use as permitted in Ridgeview subject to the restriction that the use not incorporate retail showcases or displays; Councilmember Scott seconded the motion. The item passed 5–0.

Council members and staff noted the business would still need appropriate business licenses and must comply with state licensing or other laws that apply to day‑to‑day retail or financial activities. The motion, and the staff presentation, also referenced recent state legislation (HB306) in the context of crypto‑mining and industrial blockchain activities; councilmembers clarified that industrial uses such as onsite cryptocurrency mining would not be permitted in the commercial space and that local zoning and building utility limits could prevent that form of operation.

The council did not adopt any additional restrictions beyond the no‑showcase condition. The applicant will move forward with required business licensing and any building or fire‑safety approvals before full operation.

The council session then moved on to other agenda items.