Minnetonka planning commission approves parking expansion at 11501 Keitel Drive

The Minnetonka Planning Commission on Dec. 18 approved a revised site plan allowing a parking-lot expansion at 11501 Keitel Drive to serve Big River Encore Park and tenant Rainbow Tree Companies.

Staff recommended adopting a resolution rescinding and replacing Resolution 2024-11, and commissioners voted 5-0 to approve the updated site plan. Chair Maxwell said the decision is final and reminded those aggrieved that written appeals to city staff must be filed within 10 days.

Staff presentation and recommendation Staff described the project as a revision to a September 2024 approval: the current owner and tenant asked for changes so the site would meet the tenant’s operational needs. Staff said the plan increases the site’s impervious area and adds surface parking and stormwater controls; it also proposes the removal of seven protected trees. Staff recommended adoption of the updated resolution and told the commission it received no public comments on the project.

Stormwater and tree protections Commissioners asked about stormwater treatment and tree impacts. City staff explained the plan includes infiltration measures—described during the meeting as underground…