Planning commission approves conditional use for First Assembly of God sanctuary at 2015 Indian Street

The North Bend Planning Commission on Sept. 15 approved a conditional‑use request allowing First Assembly of God to build a new sanctuary at 2015 Indian Street.

Paul, the city planner, told commissioners the existing church is a legally established conditional use in the R‑7 zone and that most development standards—building height, lot coverage and landscaping—are met. He said staff recommended approval with conditions but noted a traffic analysis is required because the combined trip generation from the existing building and the proposed sanctuary exceeds the threshold cited in the staff report.

Richard White, speaking for applicant John Mulaney, said the congregation chose to build a new sanctuary rather than undertake costly sprinkler‑system upgrades to the existing building. He said the existing structure would be repurposed for classrooms and community functions and that the project will increase on‑site parking to meet city requirements.

Commissioners had no speakers opposed or neutral to the application and, after brief deliberation, a commissioner moved to approve the conditional‑use request subject to the conditions discussed in the staff report. The motion was seconded and the chair announced the motion passed (vote tally not specified in the transcript).

The commission’s approval is subject to the listed conditions in the final order and to any required permits. Paul indicated a traffic analysis consistent with the city’s code will be required before final permits are issued.