Planning Commission backs Southern Mill amendment to add 14 condominiums

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of a Planned Development amendment at Southern Mill (355 S. Anita Street) to construct a four‑story addition containing 14 for‑sale condominiums and compact parking. Staff described the amendment as consistent with the 2023 comprehensive plan’s goals for adaptive re‑use and for mixed‑use infill.

Applicant Scott Haines (WDA Engineering) said the addition would finish a long‑running redevelopment of the former mill property and is intended to be compatible with existing commercial uses on the property — restaurant, hotel and brewery uses were cited. The proposal includes a new patio amenity and a request for a waiver to preserve flexibility in how the space could be used in the future (staff supported the waiver to allow adaptive reuse without an additional amendment if market conditions change).

Public comment included 1 speaker with a neighborhood concern, but no major objections were recorded. Commissioners discussed scale and materials; applicant said elevations would align with the mill’s brick character and existing neighboring buildings.

The commission’s unanimous recommendation will be forwarded to the Mayor & Commission. Staff and the applicant noted plan‑review and construction‑phase details will follow any final approvals.