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Council OKs first reading to rezone parcels for Minnesota Independence College and Community learning center
Summary
On first reading the Richfield City Council approved rezoning four parcels on 76th Street West to MR2 to allow a 27,978-square-foot two-story learning center and administrative offices for Minnesota Independence College and Community; planning commission previously recommended approval and a second reading will consider final plans on Jan. 27.
The Richfield City Council on Jan. 13 approved, on first reading, an ordinance to rezone four parcels on the north side of 76th Street West (near Morgan and Newton Avenues) from low-density residential (R) to MR2 multifamily residential to permit construction of a 27,978-square-foot, two-story learning center and related administrative space for Minnesota Independence College and Community (MCC).
Council member Burke introduced the item and staff described the application as including a rezoning, a conditional-use permit for a learning institution, a preliminary plat to reconfigure lots, and five variances (setbacks, lot coverage and parking reductions). Planning Commission held a public hearing on Dec. 8, 2025, and voted unanimously to recommend approval.
Council members praised the applicant's neighborhood outreach and said the proposal was improved by public feedback. "This is a great project," Council member Hayford O'Leary said during discussion, adding the council would want tax-status clarification for the residential and school portions before final action. Staff said that information would be provided ahead of the Jan. 27 meeting, when the second reading and final development review are scheduled.
The first reading passed by roll-call vote. The proposal will return for a formal second reading and final approval; staff said the applicant was present for questions and that the city had noted a higher-than-normal number of variances because nonresidential standards in the MR districts had not been fully updated.
If ultimately approved, the center aims to provide vocational and life-skills training for autistic and neurodivergent individuals.
