Plan commission recommends Culver's second drive‑through and site‑plan changes

Chris McGuire, an owner of the Culver's restaurant and the applicant's spokesperson, introduced the proposal to add a second drive‑through lane, shift accessible parking, expand parking from 39 to 45 spaces, and improve on‑site circulation to reduce vehicle stacking onto Verona Avenue.

City planning staff reviewed the site‑plan amendment and conditional use permit and recommended approval. The staff presentation said the proposal relocates accessible parking to reduce conflicts, increases total parking, and adds stacking in order to prevent cars from backing onto Verona Avenue; the city police department reviewed the circulation changes and supported the improvement. "With the additional parking, the additional stacking, and improved circulation, staff is supportive and recommend approval of the site plan and conditional use permit," staff said.

Commissioners asked the applicant whether the existing outdoor seating would be preserved or relocated; the applicant said the seating would be shifted to the relocated parking area. Commissioner discussion emphasized safety and circulation during peak periods. Commissioner Powers moved and Commissioner Powers seconded (recorded in transcript as second by Commissioner Powers) the motions recommending the Common Council approve the conditional use permit and separately approve the site‑plan amendment; both were adopted by voice vote.

The commission's actions were recommended to the Common Council; the transcript records no further conditions beyond staff recommendations included in the staff report.