Commission recommends pattern‑book change to allow grocery store on 3‑lane collector; rezoning gets favorable recommendation

The Metropolitan Area Planning Commission gave a favorable recommendation to a pattern‑book change and rezoning request that would reclassify a portion of a PDM (planned development) area from multifamily (RM‑16) to commercial to accommodate a grocery store.

Carol Caldwell, the proponent, told the commission she has a grocer interested in a site along a three‑lane collector that will soon connect to a new Culver House alignment. She said the change affects a small portion of a larger 145‑acre pattern area and that required green‑space minima would be maintained. "So I'm asking the rezone for multifamily... to commercial so I can get a grocery store," Caldwell said.

Planning staff reviewed the request and recommended approval with standard conditions: satisfy city engineer requirements, comply with the stormwater drainage design manual and floodplain regulations, and submit a final site plan meeting all ordinance requirements prior to redevelopment. The commission moved, seconded and cast ballots; staff reported the rezoning request "received a favorable recommendation." Caldwell said a site plan could be expected in about 90 days, but the rezoning still requires City Council consideration for final approval.

Clarifying details: the change is a pattern‑book rezoning within an existing PDM area; Caldwell said one half‑acre of an already‑sold lot would be switched in the request. Staff emphasized that future redevelopment will require review and engineering approvals before land use change permits construction.

Outcome: favorable recommendation to City Council; applicant advised to prepare final site plan for staff and council review.