Hugo Planning Commission approves Oneka Fields apartment site plan, sends proposal to council

The Hugo Planning Commission voted on July 25 to approve a planned unit development amendment and site plan for Oneka Fields, a five-building apartment project proposed by Fenway Land Company that would add 60 apartment units on a single lot east of Highway 61 near 159th Street.

Planner Rachel (staff member) told the commission the PUD amendment would convert Outlot C to include five 12-unit buildings and that staff found the application consistent with the city code and the comprehensive plan, recommending approval subject to conditions including staff review of final color panels and material samples. "The PUD amendment meets the intent of the PUD ordinance and is consistent with the general plan," Rachel said during her presentation.

Developer Mark Genther of Fenway Land Company said the firm intends to begin construction this fall, with occupancy targeted for next spring. "Our intent is to start this fall ... hopefully start leasing next spring sometime," Genther said. He also confirmed the project will be market-rate and not subsidized and that the company uses a professional vetting service for renters.

Neighbors who spoke at the public hearing raised several concerns. Ellie Portis, who said she lives at 15737 Goodview Avenue, asked when construction would begin and requested timetable details. Maria Andrews, who said she lives directly across from the site, asked for "more vegetation" to provide privacy and raised questions about how renters will be screened and who will maintain landscaping and common areas over time. "If this property is not maintained properly, our homes are going to be devaluated immediately," Andrews said. Julia Palumbo, a new resident near the project, questioned whether a second driveway onto Goodview Avenue is necessary and warned of potential safety issues at the intersection.

In response the developer said Fenway has local offices, intends to remain in Hugo and is willing to review additional landscaping and evergreen plantings at building ends. On access, the developer deferred to the city engineer, and staff noted the city engineer recommends two access points and, if only one, prefers the Goodview location because it is controlled by a stop sign.

After discussion about colors, landscaping and access, a commissioner moved to approve the site plan and PUD amendment for Oneka Fields. The motion was seconded and carried on roll call. Chair announced the item will go to the Hugo City Council on Aug. 5 at 7:00 p.m.

What changes next: staff will review final color panels and material samples before a building permit is issued and the applicant must complete the preliminary plat recording and required easements. The commission's approval was subject to the standard conditions included in the staff resolution.

The commission did not record any departures from staff recommendations; no subsidies or affordable-housing commitments were described in the application.