Commission approves masonry compromise for cold-storage addition at 9281 Pine Needle Drive

Applicant Mike Kadlec told the commission his company needs a small cold-storage addition connected to an existing manufacturing facility to hold returnable racks and pallets during winter weather. "We're currently a manufacturing operation and we're trying to get a little bit more floor space for our returnable racks, pallets, especially during the winter months," Kadlec said.

Staff and commissioners raised the city's 50% masonry guideline for building elevations. Kadlec said full masonry would be costly for a rear, largely unseen cold-storage portion and proposed metal panels; commissioners and staff warned that metal panels at grade are vulnerable to snow, salt and equipment damage. One commissioner suggested a masonry base of roughly 6 feet to protect the panels from impact; another noted that 5 feet could achieve a significant masonry percent while protecting the base.

Commissioners compromised on a masonry base requirement: proposed building elevations must have masonry exterior to a height of 6 ft 8 in from finished floor and the material shall match the existing building. The commission voted to approve the site alteration with four conditions, including the revised masonry elevation.

The applicant said he will review cost implications and proceed with final construction documents that reflect the conditions. Staff will verify the masonry base and other conditions during permit review.