Council staff recommend approval for exhaust‑fan encroachment for Mix Korean barbecue after multi‑department review

City planning, building and fire staff presented an encroachment-easement request on Feb. 18 to allow two exterior exhaust fans associated with a proposed menu expansion at Mix (Mixed Global Kitchen) to extend into a 10‑foot Uptown alley between Mix and Marion Antiques.

Staff said the fans would project roughly 16½–18 inches from the building face, would have a 30‑inch diameter and be mounted about 10 feet above grade. The fans are connected to an interior kitchen hood and an integrated fire‑suppression system; staff told council the proposed installation meets clearance and combustible‑material requirements for the fire code.

Nicole (planning) and Deputy Chief Hanson described a two‑year review with testing and said the system for the proposed Korean barbecue is less grease‑laden than a typical commercial hood. Fire and building divisions recommended approval without screening, though staff noted screening or mural coordination could be addressed later if Uptown alley art or an entry program moves forward.

Council questions Council members asked about noise and odor. Staff said the fans are comparable to other commercial kitchen exhausts, that the applicant will perform required maintenance and cleaning per code, and that the manufacturer indicated the fans can be painted to reduce visual impact. Staff agreed to follow up with decibel specifications on request.

Ending Staff recommended council approve the encroachment easement as submitted; the item will proceed through the normal approval steps. No screening condition was imposed at this time.