Detroit Lakes approves conditional-use permit and rezoning steps for 141-unit Southshore Senior Living project

The Detroit Lakes City Council on June 9 advanced a major land-use request for a planned 141-unit Southshore Senior Living development at 565 Southshore Drive.

Council gave first reading to ordinance 550 to rezone the parcel from R2 (one- and two-family district) to R4 (limited multi-family) to accommodate a planned-unit development. Separately, the council adopted a resolution approving a conditional-use permit and a variance allowing two westerly buildings to reach 44 feet 5 inches in height (instead of the 39-foot maximum) to permit parking on the main level and a pitched roof design.

City planner Larry summarized the project composition: "It includes 72 units of active living, 18 units of independent care, 29 units of assisted living and 22 units for memory care," and said the planning commission recommended approval. Committee members and staff said the height variance was requested so design could accommodate parking on the first floor while preserving a pitched roof that better fits the neighborhood character.

Some neighbors contacted council members with concerns about overflow street parking near the Southshore boat launch and urged assurance that the project will provide adequate on-site parking. Council member Wendy noted those concerns and asked staff and the applicant to ensure parking plans meet the ordinance and neighborhood needs; staff confirmed the project meets the ordinance’s parking requirements but acknowledged neighbor apprehension about future street parking.

The conditional-use permit and variance passed and the rezoning received a first reading. Further steps (site plan review and subsequent permitting) will follow the ordinance process.

The planning commission and the community development committee both recommended council approval before tonight’s votes.