Planning Commission recommends approval of Kwik Trip car-wash bay addition; conditions and reviews requested

The Planning Commission on Feb. 5 voted to recommend City Council approval of a conditional use permit amendment and site-plan amendment for the Kwik Trip on McKnight to add a second car-wash bay on the north side of the existing facility.

Staff described the proposal as a modest addition that moves into an existing landscape island, reduces the island width, and requires some demolition and landscaping revisions. Staff noted the plan includes relocating one or more transformers (coordinated with the city electric department), and raised concern that a transformer pad appeared close to an existing tree; staff recommended the applicant move or replace the tree as part of the landscape plan. Staff also asked for an updated exterior lighting plan for the rear of the building and said the watershed review concluded the project is small enough not to require a watershed permit.

The city engineer flagged likely additional sewer-access charges (SAC) because a car wash increases water and sanitary use; staff said applicants must obtain SAC calculations from the Met Council and the city before building permits can be issued. Commissioners also noted the site is adjacent to MnDOT right-of-way, and staff said plans would be sent for MnDOT review.

Staff recommended two resolutions in the packet: one to recommend approval of the conditional use permit amendment and one to recommend approval of the site plan; the commission accepted staff’s recommendation and voted to forward the items to City Council. Commissioner Alvarez moved, Commissioner Gadbois seconded, and the commission approved the recommendation; staff said the items are scheduled for council consideration on Feb. 17.

Before Council consideration, staff will require updated exterior lighting plans, coordination on transformer relocation with the city electric department, and SAC calculations tied to the Met Council review and fees.